YANKTON, S.D. (WNAX) – Gary Hanson, the current Chairman of the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission is running for reelection this year.

He says his experience is an asset.

Hanson, a Republican, was first elected to the commission in 2002 and reelected in 2008 and 2014. He says there are different approaches to utility regulation.

Hanson says keeping the lights and heat on is a priority for him.

Hanson faces Democrat Remi (ray-me) Bald Eagle and Libertarian Devin Saxon on the November ballot.