CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — Heath Shields, a prominent business owner, rancher, and conservative activist, has officially announced his candidacy seeking the Republican nomination for South Dakota State Treasurer in the 2026 election.
Shields, whose roots run deep in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, enters the political arena with a vision aimed at reform and modernization, encapsulated in his comprehensive “Seven Pillars Plan.” This strategic blueprint aims to overhaul fiscal management and significantly enhance transparency within the Treasurer’s Office, setting new standards for public service in South Dakota.
“Leadership isn’t found in ambition — it’s born from a calling,” Shields declared passionately during his announcement in Custer. “I feel called to serve South Dakota — not merely to maintain expectations but to raise them. Our citizens deserve a Treasurer’s Office that doesn’t settle for ‘good enough,’ but one that constantly strives to deliver more transparency, more efficiency, and more accountability than ever before.”
Driven by a steadfast commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, Shields aims to elevate South Dakota’s fiscal oversight beyond routine administration, advocating for a proactive approach to financial stewardship. “I don’t want to just give South Dakotans what they’ve come to expect. I want to raise their expectations of the Treasurer’s Office altogether,” he said.
Central to Shields’ campaign is the innovative Seven Pillars Plan, crafted to modernize fiscal management, ensure the timely return of unclaimed property, improve citizen access to financial data, and safeguard South Dakota’s long-term financial health.
- Modernizing outdated processes to streamline efficiency
- Strengthening fiscal security through disciplined, conservative management
- Increasing transparency into state accounts and investments
- Enhancing and simplifying communication with citizens
- Accelerating the return of unclaimed property
- Promoting financial responsibility and literacy statewide
- Protecting South Dakota’s permanent trust funds for future generations
“South Dakotans deserve to see clearly where their money is, how it’s protected and what we’re doing to secure their financial future,” Shields emphasized. “My goal is simple: build the most modern, transparent, and responsive Treasurer’s Office in state history.”
His approach reflects an overarching aim to create not just a Treasurer’s Office that operates efficiently in the present but also one that is equipped for future challenges. “This office must be built for the future — not just maintained for the moment,” Shields asserted.
A resident of Custer, Shields brings a diverse background to his candidacy, having successfully managed a range of enterprises from real estate to agritourism in the economically vibrant Black Hills region. With a keen understanding of financial and regulatory systems, Shields has been an active force in Republican grassroots efforts, advocating for policies that prioritize fiscal prudence and conservative values.
South Dakota, renowned for its robust landscapes and independent spirit, has long valued transparency and strong governance. Shields aims to reflect these values by promising a Treasurer who leads with purpose, integrity, and vision, championing future-oriented development tailored to support taxpayers while safeguarding state financial institutions.
For decades, South Dakota has witnessed the impact of effective fiscal management, and Shields’ campaign promises to enhance these foundations by integrating modern systems that ensure accountability and advance state financial operations.
Engage with Heath Shields’ campaign and explore his vision for the future of South Dakota’s fiscal health at www.VoteShields.com or reach out directly via email at info@voteshields.com or call 605-307-0017.