Democratic Leader Dan Ahlers to Seek South Dakota Governor's Mansion

Longtime community leader and former state legislator announces bid for governor, promising bipartisan leadership.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Dan Ahlers, a former state legislator and longtime community leader, has announced he is running for governor of South Dakota. Ahlers, who served six years representing District 25 in the state legislature, says the state needs bipartisan leadership focused on problem-solving rather than party politics. He will formally announce his candidacy on Tuesday, February 10 in downtown Sioux Falls.

Why it matters

Ahlers' announcement adds another Democrat to the race for South Dakota governor, challenging the Republican incumbent. As a former legislator known for working across the aisle, Ahlers is positioning himself as an alternative to the partisan gridlock that has characterized state politics in recent years.

The details

Ahlers, who has held leadership roles in his community for decades, including serving as president of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce and the Haven before- and after-school program, says he will bring the same determination he's used throughout his career to find common ground, respect differences, and deliver results as governor.

  • Ahlers will formally announce his candidacy for governor on Tuesday, February 10 in downtown Sioux Falls.
  • Ahlers served in the South Dakota Legislature from 2007 to 2010, with terms in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The players

Dan Ahlers

A former state legislator and longtime community leader who has announced he is running for governor of South Dakota, promising bipartisan leadership focused on problem-solving.

Robert Arnold

A college student at Dakota State University who has also announced plans to run for governor of South Dakota as a Democrat.

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What they’re saying

“With grit and determination, I started a small business and served my community for more than 20 years. That same grit built South Dakota. But today, too many politicians are choosing party politics over representing the people they serve. I'm running for governor to bring people together and get work done.”

— Dan Ahlers, Gubernatorial Candidate (The Dakota Scout)

“As governor, I'll bring the same determination I've used my entire career looking for common ground, respecting differences, and delivering results. South Dakota works best when we work together.”

— Dan Ahlers, Gubernatorial Candidate (The Dakota Scout)

What’s next

Ahlers will formally announce his candidacy for governor on Tuesday, February 10 in downtown Sioux Falls.

The takeaway

Ahlers' announcement adds a bipartisan voice to the race for South Dakota governor, positioning himself as an alternative to the partisan gridlock that has characterized state politics in recent years. As a former legislator known for working across the aisle, Ahlers is promising to bring people together and get work done if elected.