Letters to the Editor - VanHorn: Dr. Hill deserves your vote

The midterm election cycle is gearing up here in State Legislative District 2. There are four candidates running for State House and two candidates running for State Senate in the June 2 Republican primary.

I’m on the opposite side of the political aisle, and I had really hoped to vote for Dr. Dawn Hill for State House. Unfortunately, I missed the deadline to switch party affiliation in order to vote in the Republican primary, which was Monday, May 18 at 5 p.m. Because there are no statewide Democratic primaries and city races are not until November, I won’t be able to vote in the June 2 primary.

Even so, I strongly encourage Republicans in District 2 to vote for Dr. Dawn Hill.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to talk with Dawn personally and attend a couple of her meet-and-greet events. I have been extremely impressed by her as both a candidate and a local leader.

Dawn worked as a registered nurse for 10 years before becoming a doctor and now works for Avera McKennan. One of her top priorities is expanding healthcare access so every South Dakotan — regardless of where they live — has access to quality medical services. She also wants to recruit and retain quality healthcare workers across our state.

Another one of her major priorities is protecting public education. As a 2023 graduate of Brandon Valley High School, and the son of a mother who has spent more than 30 years working as a teacher, education is one of the most important issues to me as a voter.

Dawn wants to make sure Brandon Valley remains one of the best school districts in South Dakota by continuing to invest in strong public schools. She opposes diverting public dollars away from public education through school voucher programs and believes we should prioritize strengthening the schools that serve the vast majority of South Dakota families.

She also wants to support small businesses, strengthen the local economy, and grow the workforce to create more good-paying, quality jobs.

I genuinely believe Dawn Hill is one of the most intelligent, thoughtful, and genuine leaders I’ve ever met. I hate seeing her attacked unfairly when she is balancing a full-time medical career, raising a family, and running a campaign at the same time.

Some critics claim she is not talking about the issues, but the issues she talks about resonate deeply with me as an everyday voter who works a full-time job and worries about the economy, healthcare, education, and the direction of our state and country.

It is my honor to endorse Dr. Dawn Hill for State Representative in District 2.

I encourage Republicans in District 2 to vote for her in the June 2 primary. There are two seats available, and I hope we send her to Pierre this November.

Learn more about her campaign here: drdawnhill.com/

If you’re able, consider donating a few dollars, volunteering, or encouraging your friends and family to vote in the primary.

Dawn Hill is ready to bring common sense leadership to Pierre.

Sawyer Van Horn

Brandon