A Democratic town hall focused on agriculture and rural life was held in Britton a few weeks ago, bringing together state and federal candidates along with regional agricultural and mental health voices. The central theme of the evening was the financial and mental strain facing rural communities and farm families.
Julian Beaudion, a former South Dakota state trooper with more than 13 years of service, is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Sen. Mike Rounds. Beaudion said he is seeking office to continue serving others and emphasized listening to neighbors to find solutions. While he acknowledged he does not come from an agricultural background, he said he has been meeting with farmers and ranchers to better understand changes since the 2018 farm bill and the impact of the pandemic. He questioned why Congress has not passed an updated farm bill and voiced concern about cuts to Community Development Financial Institutions and their effects on rural communities.
Nikki Gronli, a small business owner from Dell Rapids, is running for South Dakota’s U.S. House seat currently held by Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson. Gronli previously served as South Dakota state director for USDA Rural Development from 2022 to 2025. She raised concerns about reductions in funding for renewable energy projects, staffing cuts within USDA agencies and uncertainty surrounding the next farm bill. She also warned that many producers could face challenges securing operating loans in the coming years and pointed to alternative ownership models in other states aimed at helping farmers maintain independent operations.
Much of the discussion centered on the structure of modern agriculture and federal policy. Doug Sombke, president of the South Dakota Farmers Union and a farmer from the Groton area, said producers do not control prices for their commodities and described financial pressures tied to global markets. He argued that agriculture has become increasingly industrialized, limiting opportunities for young people to enter farming.
Charlie Johnson, an organic grain farmer from Madison expressed frustration with what he views as an overreliance on federal subsidies and said each generation should have the opportunity to pay off a farm within their lifetime. Several speakers referenced the farm crisis of the 1970s and 1980s and the toll financial stress took on rural families.
Franne Sippel, a licensed psychologist from Aberdeen, addressed mental health in agriculture. She said farmers must manage multiple complex responsibilities while facing factors beyond their control. Depression and anxiety are common, she said, though stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help. She encouraged the use of telehealth services and emphasized the importance of recognizing when someone is struggling.
Audience members also raised concerns and asked questions. Lawrence Diggs asked how communities can create more meaningful places and experiences where rural residents can build connections. Day County Emergency Manager Bryan Anderson spoke about the impact of federal funding cuts, including reductions affecting the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He said changes have affected landowners, farmers and homeowners, and noted that reevaluated flood elevations in Day County have significantly increased insurance premiums for some property owners.
The South Dakota primary election is scheduled for June 2, with the general election to follow in November 3.
