Rapid City business leaders aim to boost voter turnout

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Pennington County, home to Rapid City, has seen lower voter turnout in presidential elections compared to other major counties in South Dakota over the past decade, though it has surpassed them in primary elections. Now, local business leaders are coming together to discuss strategies to improve overall voter engagement and participation in the Rapid City area.

Why it matters

Voter turnout is a key indicator of civic engagement and the health of local democracy. Low turnout can skew election results and underrepresent certain communities. Improving turnout, especially in local and primary elections, is seen as crucial for ensuring the Rapid City area's government reflects the will of its diverse population.

The details

Data shows Pennington County, which includes Rapid City, has lagged behind Lincoln and Minnehaha counties in presidential election turnout over the past 10 years, though it has outperformed them in primary elections. Now, the local business community is convening discussions to identify ways to boost overall voter participation, such as increasing voter registration drives, improving access to polling locations, and raising awareness of election dates and issues.

• Voter turnout data goes back to 2016.
• Pennington County has trailed other major counties in presidential election turnout over the past decade.
• Pennington County has surpassed other counties in primary election turnout.

What’s next

The business community plans to continue discussions and coordinate efforts to increase voter registration and participation in the Rapid City area.