Jamie Smith Runs for Sioux Falls Mayor
Smith's candidacy brings a new level of excitement to the mayoral race, with his strong connection to the city and his experience as a state legislator making him a viable contender. As the election approaches, voters will be watching closely to see how the candidates address the city's growth and the need for direction.
State Senator Jamie Smith is officially announcing his candidacy for Sioux Falls Mayor, joining a growing field of contenders in the race to lead South Dakota's largest city. Smith, a former Democratic candidate for governor, emphasized the importance of the mayoral election in determining the city's future, citing the city's growth and the need for direction.
Current Mayor Paul TenHaken is term-limited and cannot run for re-election, leaving the door open for new candidates. Republican Representative Greg Jamison is also considering a run for the office, which could lead to a competitive election. Smith, who has represented District 15, a central Sioux Falls legislative district, since 2011, has expressed interest in the mayoral position due to his strong connection to the city.
In the 2022 gubernatorial election, Smith secured the Democratic nomination but lost to then-Gov. Kristi Noem, receiving 35% of the vote. However, he performed well in the Sioux Falls area, receiving 45% of the countywide vote. This strong showing in the city has likely encouraged him to run for mayor, where he will face perennial candidate David Zokaites and potentially other contenders.
As the mayoral election approaches, Smith's campaign will focus on the city's growth and the need for direction, highlighting his experience as a state legislator and his connection to the community. With his official announcement, the race for Sioux Falls Mayor is heating up, and voters can expect a competitive election in 2026.