On February 6, 2025, key media representatives from across South Dakota gathered at the Capitol in Pierre for News Media Day. This event, organized by the South Dakota Newspaper Association (SDNA), facilitated a crucial meeting with Governor Larry Rhoden and his communications team, marking a significant step towards resetting the state’s press relations.
The discussion highlighted Governor Larry Rhoden’s commitment to fostering more transparent and effective communication channels between his administration and South Dakota’s journalistic community. Governor Rhoden expressed his desire to improve dialogue, stating, “It’s important for South Dakota’s citizens to have access to clear and open information, and as your governor, I am excited to engage constructively with our state’s media.”
The meeting featured prominent journalists including Carson Walker from S.D. News Watch, Kristi Hine from the Wessington Springs True Dakotan, Molly McRoberts from Potter County News, Jason Ferguson from Custer County Chronicle, and Luke Hagen from Mitchell Republic—the author of the well-regarded article discussing the governor’s communication initiative, published on the South Dakota Searchlight website.
Larry Rhoden
These journalists took the opportunity to discuss the pressing issues facing South Dakota’s citizens, underscoring the vital role of local news in fostering informed communities. Carson Walker remarked, “Our role is to report truth and hold leadership accountable, and it’s encouraging to see such openness from Governor Rhoden.”
Governor Rhoden’s team, including Press Secretary Josie Harms and Communications Director Ian Fury, actively participated in the event, detailing strategies to enhance media access to the governor’s office. The meeting included constructive dialogues on how mutual cooperation could benefit information flow regarding state policies and initiatives.
One notable point of discussion was inspired by a Mitchell High School student’s suggestion to investigate the increasing number of dead deer observed across eastern South Dakota. This illustrates the community’s significant influence on news coverage. Such interactions showcase how South Dakota’s citizens, especially its youth, contribute to the local journalistic landscape by highlighting issues that resonate with public interest.
As Governor Rhoden and his team work towards improving media relations, the media community continues to play an integral role in amplifying the voices of South Dakotans. Kristi Hine from the Wessington Springs True Dakotan emphasized, “Our responsibility is to deliver timely and relevant stories to our readers, reflecting their concerns and aspirations.”
Kristi Hine
The meeting reflects a pivotal moment in South Dakota, signaling a promising transition towards better media-government synergy. As both entities work cooperatively, the shared goal remains the same: to ensure that South Dakotans receive trustworthy and clear information.
In light of these proceedings, the media in South Dakota, including entities like the Custer County Chronicle and the Potter County News, remain committed to upholding journalistic integrity and transparency. Jason Ferguson of the Custer County Chronicle reflected, “We’re here to bridge the gap between government actions and public understanding, ensuring every South Dakotan stays informed.”
This initiative not only extends beyond interpersonal dialogue but also reaffirms the enduring importance of responsible journalism in democratic governance. As South Dakota continues to evolve, its journalistic voices carry the mandate to echo the people’s needs, creating a well-informed public ready to engage with state governance with clarity and confidence.
For more insights into Governor Rhoden’s commitment to better communication with South Dakota’s media, read the full article by Luke Hagen at South Dakota Searchlight.