ABERDEEN, S.D.(Hub City Radio)- Democrat candidates for the South Dakota Governor Dan Ahlers and U.S. House Nikki Gronli updated what’s happening with the Democrat Party in South Dakota.

Earlier this month, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Julian Beaudion withdrew his candidacy for that seat.  Both acknowledged his efforts starting with Ahlers.

Gronli did a number of town halls with Beaudion before both declaring their runs for U.S. Congress.

Ahlers felt Beaudion wasn’t forced to withdraw but did say there was pressure for him to do so.

One concern with the Democrat Party is the number of voters registered as a Democrat in the state.  In June of 2025, there was about 145,000 now in June prior to the election, it dropped to over 136,000.  Ahlers felt one reason is young people are leaving the state of South Dakota.

Gronli has done event with young Democrats all across the state.  She backed up statements made by Ahlers.  She also discussed that young people are assisting with events Democrats are hosting.

Gronli also discuss what the South Dakota Legislature has passed that has made it more difficult to register to vote.

Gronli will visit NSU to speak with students on Thursday, September 17th.