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EqSD PAC Endorses Primary Election Candidates

For the first time in South Dakota electoral history, a state LGBT group has given political action money to state legislative candidates.

Equality South Dakota PAC (EqSD PAC) has recently provided over $5,000 in funding to both Republican and Democratic candidates involved in the June 3, 2008 South Dakota primary. Among those EqSD PAC has provided funding to in June primary races:

• Elaine Elliott, Democrat, House District 2, Aberdeen.
• Darrell Solberg, Democrat, House District 11, Sioux Falls.
• Martha Vanderlinde, Democrat, House District 15, Sioux Falls.
• Caitlin Collier, Democrat, House District 17, Vermillion.
• Larry Lucas, Democrat, House District 26A, Mission.
• Kevin Killer, Democrat, House District 27, Pine Ridge.
• Jeff Nelson, Democrat, House District 33, Rapid City.

Full details of all candidates provided funding can be found after May 23, 2008 on the South Dakota Secretary of State's website in the EqSD PAC's pre-primary contribution report.

"Besides EqSD PAC seeking candidates to endorse, candidates came to us wanting our endorsement and financial support," said Todd Epp, a straight lawyer from Harrisburg, SD and chair of EqSD PAC. "The fact that candidates were excited about our support and that almost all of the primary surveys were so positive about LGBT issues is exciting."

Following the primary election, EqSD PAC will endorse and provide funds to selected legislative candidates in the November general election who it believes have progressive views on LGBT issues. General election candidates have until June 10 to return their surveys to EqSD PAC.

All legislative candidates were sent a survey (and cover letter) on critical LGBT issues. The survey included questions on 1) would they support adding "LGBT" to existing state law prohibiting employment discrimination; 2) whether the candidates would support anti-bullying state legislation; and 3) whether the candidates supported allowing domestic partner hospital visitation rights. The candidates also provided biographical information and how they believed their campaigns can win.

"In addition to money, we hope to deliver volunteers, campaign support and ultimately enough votes to make the difference," said PAC board member Karen Mudd, a lesbian in Sioux Falls. "Please get involved to help elect these candidates."

EqSD PAC is the political action committee for Equality South Dakota (EqSD), a South Dakota non-profit corporation. EqSD PAC is a voluntary, non-profit, unincorporated association operating as a separate, segregated organization of EqSD. PAC board members include: Todd Epp, Harrisburg; Don Frankenfeld, Rapid City; Karen Mudd, Sioux Falls; Lawrence Novotny, Brookings; ; Gary Snow, Pierre; and Sharon Ludwick Warner, Rapid City.