South Dakota Political History & Voting Patterns
Reliably R since 1964; Tom Daschle exception in Senate. A complete guide to how South Dakota has voted in presidential elections, which coalitions have driven results, and how the state has shifted over time.
Historical Overview
South Dakota is defined by its Plains agricultural economy, Sioux tribe political power (Native Americans 9% of population), and Mount Rushmore national identity. Tom Daschle’s defeat in 2004 — the only Senate Majority Leader to lose re-election since 1952 — symbolized the state’s rightward completion. Kristi Noem became a national figure through COVID-19 controversy (never issued lockdowns) and her bizarre book story about shooting her dog. John Thune, who defeated Daschle, became Senate Majority Leader in 2025.
Key Elections & Turning Points
| Year | Significance |
|---|---|
| 1964 | LBJ won — last D presidential win |
| 2004 | Tom Daschle lost Senate majority leader seat to John Thune |
| 2018 | Kristi Noem won governor |
| 2020 | Trump +26 |
| 2024 | Trump +29; Thune became Senate Majority Leader |
Geographic Voting Patterns
Democratic Strongholds
Minnehaha County (Sioux Falls, competitive), Shannon/Oglala Lakota County (Pine Ridge, D+70+)
Republican Strongholds
All other counties; Pennington County (Rapid City), Brown County (Aberdeen)
Realignment Driver
Primary factor: Agricultural conservatism, rural cultural alignment, Plains states anti-federal tradition