Important Election Information for South Dakota

Voting is one of the most powerful ways South Dakotans make their voices heard. AARP South Dakota is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to providing clear, credible and trustworthy information to help voters understand the process and make informed decisions. As people age 50 and older continue to turn out and shape elections at every level, knowing the facts about when, where and how to vote matters more than ever.

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Click on one of these topics to view important election information:

Recent Voting Changes in South Dakota

Dates to Know for 2026 Elections

South Dakota Election Information

Sioux Falls Local Election on June 2 – Candidate Video Voter Guides

Recent voting changes in South Dakota
Starting in 2026, a new state law changes how and when municipal elections are held in South Dakota.

What You Need to Know

• Starting in 2026 and in all future even-numbered years, cities must choose to hold their municipal elections on either the statewide Primary Election Day or on General Election Day. For 2026, those dates are June 2 (Primary) and November 3 (General Election).
• Starting in 2027 and in all future odd-numbered years, cities have the flexibility to hold elections on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in June or November. In 2027, those dates are June 8 and November 2. During odd-numbered years, municipalities may also combine their elections with those of the local school district, but they are not required to do so.
• No candidate for elective municipal office may be nominated unless the candidate files a nominating petition with the finance officer no later than 5 p.m. on the Tuesday 70 days before the date of the election.\