In the race for South Dakota’s District 35, Ken Jeakins is leveraging his personal history as a medically retired Air Force veteran to center his platform on the urgent need for better healthcare access and expanded mental health resources. Running as a Democrat for one of two open House seats, Jeakins is focusing heavily on the unique challenges faced by those who have served, arguing that systemic barriers still prevent many from getting the care they deserve.
A significant portion of Jeakins’ campaign revolves around dismantling the long standing stigma associated with mental health treatment within the military community. He believes that a rigid internal culture often discourages both active duty service members and veterans from seeking psychological support. According to Jeakins, shifting this mindset cannot happen in isolation but instead requires proactive leadership and visible support across all ranks of command.
The candidacy has already gained some notable momentum, including a recent endorsement from the national veterans advocacy organization VoteVets. After advancing through the primary election without opposition, Jeakins now moves into the general election phase where he will compete against Republican candidates Dale Bartscher and Jason Fleming.
As voters prepare to head to the polls in November, they will be tasked with filling two vacancies created by term limits in a district that encompasses eastern Rapid City, Box Elder, and Ellsworth Air Force Base. The outcome will determine which of these three candidates will represent the region’s interests in Pierre while tackling critical issues like rural healthcare and veteran wellness.
