SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A familiar name in Sioux Falls politics has entered the city’s 2026 mayoral race.
Christine Erickson, who previously represented Minnehaha County in the state legislature and also served eight years on the Sioux Falls City Council, announced her candidacy for Sioux Falls mayor at a downtown event Wednesday.
“I’m running because like many of you, I’ve experienced the incredible strength, growth and community spirit that is Sioux Falls,” Erickson said at her afternoon announcement. “I’ve seen us face challenges head on, come out stronger together, but I believe we’re just getting started.”
Current Mayor Paul TenHaken is term-limited. Erickson joins Jamie Smith and David Zokaites in the race; the election is scheduled for June 2, 2026. The 47-year-old Erickson, who is president of both the South Dakota Automobile Dealers Association and the South Dakota Trucking Association, made a pledge to voters Wednesday.
“Here’s my commitment to you, Sioux Falls,” Erickson said at the event. “I will lead with common sense. I will ask tough questions and focus on solutions that work. I will make sure our government serves you and not itself. I will partner with anyone who wants to move our city forward, regardless of party or perspective.”
Following her announcement, KELOLAND News asked Erickson what she sees as the biggest issue or issues presently facing Sioux Falls.
“So our campaign really is focused on making sure our community’s safe,” Erickson said in response. “We hear it over and over. I believe that our current administration is doing a fantastic job at combating crime and giving them the resources. We want to expand on that and grow on that.”
Erickson makes clear that she sees Sioux Falls as already a safe community. She also addressed the new men’s prison which could be coming to the Sioux Falls area, zeroing in on inmates’ lives after they’re released.
“What are we doing to make sure that they don’t go back,” Erickson said. “That’s going to be the big question moving forward.”
Originally published by Dan Santella on KELOLAND News on July 23, 2025. Republished with permission.