Issues
As NCBA President, Todd represented cattle producers nationwide — testifying before Congress, pushing back on government overreach, and advocating for the Farm Bill, property rights protection, and fair markets for America’s ranchers.
From the pasture to Pierre, Todd Wilkinson is working to protect the land, support rural communities, and grow opportunity across South Dakota.
The Wilkinson family at Mount Rushmore
Todd Wilkinson: Proven Leadership for South Dakota.
Todd Wilkinson has spent his life working the land, raising cattle, practicing law, and serving his community.
He is not a politician — he is a doer. From the pastures outside De Smet to testifying before Congress, Todd has always stood up for South Dakota values and the people who live them every day.
He’s earned a reputation as a fair, hard-working advocate who understands the challenges of rural life because he lives them every day.
Agriculture & Land
Agriculture is the backbone of South Dakota. It is what feeds our families, drives our economy, and keeps our small towns strong.
Todd Wilkinson knows this better than anyone. He has been raising cattle for decades and also works as an agricultural attorney.
Todd believes farmers and ranchers deserve leaders who understand their challenges. He has fought back against federal rules that threaten family operations and worked to protect private property rights. As president of the National Cattlemens Beef Association, he made sure South Dakota producers had a voice in Washington.
“I will always stand up for the people who work the land. We need less red tape, more common sense, and leaders who trust the people who make South Dakota run.”
Taxes & Economy
Families and small businesses are feeling the pinch. Rising property taxes, higher costs, and inflation are putting pressure on every household.
Todd Wilkinson believes government should live within its means, just like families do. As an attorney for several small towns, Todd has helped manage budgets and keep taxes fair. He understands how to balance the books and focus spending on what really matters.
His goal is simple: keep taxes low, waste low, and opportunity high.
“Every tax dollar should work as hard as the people who earn it. We can grow our economy without growing government.”
Faith, Family & Community
Faith, family, and hard work are the foundation of South Dakota life. Todd learned those values growing up in De Smet and has carried them through his work as a lawyer, rancher, husband, and dad.
He believes strong families make strong communities. That means supporting parents, expanding childcare options, protecting local schools, and encouraging young people to stay and build their lives here.
As President of his church board, Todd puts his faith into action through service and leadership. He is proudly pro-life and believes every life has value and purpose, a belief that guides his work and his decisions.
Todd’s late wife, Jean, shared that same belief. She worked as a nurse, helped in the family business, and always focused on helping others. Their three children and ten grandchildren remind Todd every day why the work he does matters.
“Everything I do, in my business, my community, and this campaign, comes down to making life better for the next generation.”
Education & Opportunity
Education is the foundation for South Dakota’s future. From strong local schools to higher education and technical training, learning opens doors for families and helps communities grow.
Todd Wilkinson supports investing in education that prepares students for real world jobs and keeps talent in South Dakota. He believes decisions about schools should stay local, with parents, teachers, and communities leading the way — not distant bureaucrats.
In District 8, Dakota State University plays a vital role in training the next generation of leaders in technology and cybersecurity. Todd will work to strengthen partnerships between higher education, local employers, and rural communities so students can build their futures right here at home.
“Education is not one size fits all. Our kids deserve the freedom and opportunity to learn, work, and build their lives right here in South Dakota.”
Infrastructure & Local Control
Good roads, clean water, and reliable broadband are not luxuries — they are essential for strong communities.
Todd has worked closely with towns and counties to plan and fund smart infrastructure projects that support growth while protecting local control.
He believes decisions about local roads, water systems, and broadband should be made by the people who live there, not by bureaucrats in Pierre or Washington.
“Local folks know what is best for their communities. My job is to make sure they have the tools and freedom to get it done.”
Freedom & Responsibility
Todd Wilkinson believes South Dakotans do not need more government telling them how to live.
He is committed to protecting our constitutional rights — from free speech and faith to the right to bear arms.
He also believes freedom comes with responsibility to our families, our neighbors, and our state. That is why he supports law enforcement, first responders, and local leaders who work every day to keep our communities safe.
“Freedom is not free. It takes work, respect, and responsibility. I will always stand for South Dakotans rights and for the people who defend them.”
Todd Wilkinson
Proven, Practical, South Dakota
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