Democrats Can't Win In South Dakota. Senate Candidate Brian Bengs Gonna See If An Independent Can.

February 6, 2026

TL;DR

Brian Bengs is running as an independent for the US Senate in South Dakota.
He previously ran as a Democrat in 2022 and received 26% of the vote.
Bengs is a veteran of the Navy and Air Force, a former professor, and a park ranger.
His independent run is partly inspired by recent cuts to national parks and his opposition to the actions of ICE and DHS.
Bengs is part of a trend of independent candidates running in red states.
He criticizes incumbent Republican Mike Rounds for supporting actions by ICE and DHS.
Bengs advocates for a fairer tax code, campaign finance reform, and a public healthcare option.

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