Dan Ahlers

Recent media appearances

• DebateSep 28, 2026South Dakota governor candidates clash on data centers, education, economic developmentSDPB and South Dakota News Watch
• InterviewSep 16, 2026Inside the race: Dan Ahlers and Larry Rhoden talk key issues with Dakota News NowDakota News Now
• DebateSep 5, 2026Gov. Rhoden and Dan Ahlers debate at the South Dakota State FairSouth Dakota Farmers Union (State Fair)

Top articles

1. Dakota News NowFact brief roundup: Governor debateOct 6, 2026
2. Dakota News NowRhoden and Ahlers debate South Dakota's success in agricultureSep 7, 2026
3. Dakota News NowDan Ahlers responds to Trump's endorsement of Rhoden for GovernorAug 28, 2026

Overview

Dan Ahlers is a Democrat and small business owner from Dell Rapids who served six years representing District 25 in the South Dakota Legislature. danahlers.com dakotanewsnow.com

He was the Democratic nominee for governor in 2026, challenging Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden. dakotanewsnow.com

Platform

• Says local governments should have more authority over where data centers are built and how they use local resources.kfgo.com
• Says he opposes a state income tax.dakotanewsnow.com
• Proposes restoring a tribal relations commission with all nine tribes.kfgo.com
• Says he would fight to keep rural hospitals and long-term care facilities open and expand mental health services.danahlers.com
• Proposes expanding early childhood education and child care and recruiting and keeping teachers.danahlers.com
• Says economic development programs should favor South Dakota-owned businesses over large out-of-state firms.kfgo.com