Letter to the Editor - Van Horn: Vote Rife for District 2

I recently had the opportunity to meet Blake Rife, the Democratic candidate for State House in District 2, and I came away genuinely impressed.

Blake brings a unique combination of experience and service to the table. He has worked as a teacher, a farmer, and now serves as an ICU nurse at Avera. Those roles have given him firsthand experience with the challenges facing South Dakota families, from education to agriculture to our healthcare system.

What stood out most to me was his energy and enthusiasm. Blake is thoughtful, approachable, and clearly passionate about serving our community. He studied political science at Augustana University because he has long been interested in public service and how government can improve people’s lives. After speaking with him, it’s clear that interest has only grown stronger.

Blake’s priorities are practical and focused on the issues that matter most to many South Dakotans: ensuring access to quality, affordable healthcare, strengthening our public schools, and making life more affordable for working families. These are challenges that affect all of us, and I believe he is prepared to work toward meaningful solutions.

District 2 deserves a representative who listens, understands the needs of the community, and is willing to put in the work. Based on my conversation with Blake Rife, I believe he has the experience, compassion, and commitment to do exactly that.

I encourage my fellow District 2 voters to take the time to learn about Blake Rife and consider supporting him for State House.

Sawyer Van Horn
Brandon