South Dakota Democratic Party chairman Ben Nesselhuf is resigning as Chair and Executive Director to accept a new job closer to his wife in Sioux City. Nesselhuf will be the campaign manager for Jim Mowrer, who is running for Congress against Rep. Steve King in Iowa’s 4th congressional district.
Nesselhuf released the following statement:
“For almost my entire adult life, I’ve worked to make South Dakota a better place, whether representing the great people of Clay and Turner counties in the state legislature or working to elect more Democrats across the state. Today, I’ve accepted a new job closer to my wife, Angie, in Sioux City. She’s been so supportive of my work here in South Dakota, but now I need to be closer to her.
“Thanks to so many people across South Dakota, the South Dakota Democratic Party is in strong shape to win elections up and down the ballot.”
Vice-Chair Deb Knecht of Houghton will become interim Chair. Knecht released the following statement:
“Ben has put in place a statewide network of committed volunteers and excellent staff as Chair. I’m excited to expand on his efforts to grow our coalition among women, family farmers, and young people across South Dakota.
Deputy Executive Director Zach Crago will become the interim Executive Director. Crago released the following statement:
“Ben Nesselhuf has been a true force to be reckoned with in South Dakota politics for many years. Ben believed in giving South Dakotans a state government that rewards work, respects women, and expands equal rights, and he never shied away from a fight to protect those South Dakota values. His hard work continues with the staff, volunteers, and everyday South Dakotans he inspired.”
You can find an official headshot for interim Chairwoman Deb Knecht here.
You can find an official headshot for interim Executive Director Zach Crago here.