As we turn toward the beginning of the upcoming legislative session, I’m looking forward to serving the people of District 8 and working with my fellow legislators.  It’s truly a humbling honor to have been appointed to the state senate and while there, I hope to provide purpose, direction and motivation for our state government through the public policy process.
Real and sincere leadership is a disappearing practice and too often integrity has been left at the doorsteps of the capitol.  I want to serve as an ethical standard bearer and make the privilege of public service meaningful so people can believe in those who represent them.
I believe in courage, candor, competence, and commitment. I think my constituents believe in these same ideas, beliefs and values, so they can expect this type of service from me. The people of District 8 and South Dakota believe in certain values and they want to see those same values embodied in those who represent them.
Throughout this next legislative session, I’m planning to bring these values with me to the capitol so that I can effectively listen, advocate, help our communities and families grow, and make decisions and solve problems that we grapple with here in our own hometowns and around the state.
The outpouring of support over the past few weeks since my appointment has been tremendous and I really appreciate the support that our communities have offered.  I want to thank everybody that has helped me prepare for the upcoming session by offering their perspectives on potential legislation on how to make state government more responsive, flexible and helpful to South Dakotans.
Senator Jones