FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 29, 2022
SDDP Statement on Recommendation Against Ravnsborg Impeachment
Yesterday, Republicans on the House Select Committee on Investigation recommended against impeaching Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg. Democrats Jamie Smith and Ryan Cwach were the only votes to hold the Attorney General accountable by recommending impeachment.
South Dakota Democratic Party (SDDP) Chair Randy Seiler released the following statement after yesterday’s recommendation:
“The recommendation by Republicans on the House Select Committee is disappointing, but not surprising. Ravnsborg violated the public’s trust in our government with his actions, and this would have been an important step in holding him accountable. This is a sad outcome for South Dakotans and Joe Boever’s loved ones.”
“Thank you to Rep. Ryan Cwach and Rep. Jamie Smith for their work on the Special Investigative Committee. As Democrats, we believe in integrity in government, and Rep. Cwach and Rep. Smith did their part to uphold that yesterday.”
Ravnsborg struck and killed Joe Boever in September 2020. In August 2021, Ravnsborg pled no contest to two misdemeanor charges relating to illegal lane change and using a cell phone while driving. He was sentenced to pay a fine and court costs but did not serve any jail time.
After his conviction, he has continued to serve as South Dakota’s Attorney General, undermining the integrity of the office.
The full House of Representatives will meet on April 12 to make a final determination on impeachment.
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