BURKE, S.D. (WNAX) – Former democratic Governor candidate Billie Sutton is setting up a leadership institute.

He says it is one way he can stay involved in public policy.

Sutton says they are now taking applications for their first class.

Sutton says the first meeting will be held in Chamberlain.

Sutton says he wants to focus on public policy and not partisan politics.

Sutton says there is no charge for the classes but wants to limit it to 10 to 12 participants.

Sutton lost to current Governor Kristi Noem last November by a 51 to 48 percent margin.