In Honor of My Father

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of my father's passing. Below is one of the few photos I have of my dad and me. He visited me while I was stationed as a U.S. Public Health Service Engineer Officer on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. This photo was taken on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on November 5, 1994.

I have learned more from my dad since his passing than I did while he was alive. Through his actions, he taught me the importance of standing up for the truth and fighting for justice. As a married man with ten children, he was a member of the South Dakota Right to Life movement and attended ProLife rallies in defense against the evils of abortion. As a farmer, he championed and fought for fair market prices for pork, dairy, and beef producers. Working through the National Farmers Organization, he brought farmers together to bargain collectively with corporate packing plants and dedicated nearly forty years of his life to that cause. He was a man who could find common ground with anyone because he never hesitated to engage with people who held different views.

His example helped shape the person I am today. If elected to the State Senate, I will strive to serve with the same courage and conviction. I will stand up for everyone in this district, speak honestly and passionately, and call out corruption wherever it exists, regardless of party affiliation.

On this solemn day, Dad, I ask through your intercession to storm heaven with your prayers so that, God willing, I may be a voice for the people of this legislative district.