Heather Baxter
for SD Secretary of State

Welcome! I’m Heather Baxter, a dedicated South Dakota Republican running to be your next Secretary of State. As a humble state representative for District 34 since November 2024, I've hit the ground running fighting for the issues that matter most to our families and communities. My mission is simple, Christ first, others always, while standing to preserve our freedoms and country!
Today, we stand at a critical juncture with President Trump ready to champion election integrity alongside South Dakota patriots. We must now elect a Secretary of State who is prepared to restore trust in our elections through unwavering commitment to truth and transparency. Work remains, I am ready and I will deliver.
With multiple years of hands-on service as a Pennington County GOP Executive Board member and a small business owner in both Rapid City and Custer, I bring real-world experience and a deep commitment to our state's values.
As a lifelong South Dakotan, I've volunteered at local shelters, my children's schools, school events as well as childcare ministry at church, because giving back is at the heart of who I am. As your Secretary of State, I'll champion secure and transparent elections that you can TRUST, empower small businesses with accessible resources, and cut through red tape via SD DOGE to make government work better for everyday South Dakotans.
Together, let's build a brighter future for our great state— from one patriot to another, I humbly ask for your support, but above all, I ask for your trust. Join me in this fight!
God Bless!
Joshua 1:9
~Heather
About Heather Baxter
Republican Nominee for Secretary of State
As a dedicated public servant, I am committed to restoring public trust in the electoral process and elevating customer service from the Secretary of State’s office. Many South Dakotan’s have brought ideas and requests to me for improvements they’d like to see in the office. I plan to address your concerns and get to work on day one.
I am a strong proponent for election integrity and accountability. First and foremost, I support our auditors and support local control. I stand with President Trump and echo his concerns over identified security issues in our elections such as citizenship and identification requirements, inaccurate voter rolls, mail in ballots, and voting machine issues. I fully support robust post-election audits, improved hand counting methods, and thorough disaster recovery plans.
South Dakota already has strong laws in place, but there is always room for improvement. Cast Vote Records (CVRs) are the federally required digital audit trail for our electronic tabulators. Currently only 4 of 66 counties can fully audit the elections via review of Cast Vote Records (CVRs). This must change. I will ensure all counties have the proper audit tools available to them and the required training.
I also support the development of emerging technologies that can deliver total transparency, security, and the ability to fully audit elections from start to finish. In addition, I will protect and enforce South Dakota’s proof of citizenship laws and work to restore civic engagement in the local election process. I look forward to partnering with auditors, reducing fees and regulations, implementing office efficiencies to assist South Dakotans, reducing precinct size, reviewing compliance, and leading the office in maximizing production while minimizing expenses.
Join me in the mission!
Transforming Your Secretary of State Office into an office that works for THE PEOPLE!
As your candidate for South Dakota Secretary of State, I’m committed to transforming our state’s future with bold, transparent, and community-driven leadership. My priorities reflect my proven record as a state representative, where I’ve championed election integrity, supported small businesses, and served South Dakotans with unwavering dedication. Here’s how I’ll START to make the Secretary of State’s office a beacon of truth, trust, efficiency and total transparency for every South Dakotan:

Champion Election Integrity
I will build on my record of sponsoring, voting for and passing common sense election bills as a state representative. My Secretary of State's office will implement robust and secure practices to ensure every vote is counted accurately via paper ballots.

Promote Accountability in Campaign Finance
I'll work with legislators on meaningful reform in campaign contributions and expenditures, fostering trust through clear, open reporting.

Empower Small Businesses
My office will lead the way with advocacy for an SD DOGE. I will simplify regulations and streamline processes to remove barriers, leveraging my experience as a small business owner to support entrepreneurs and drive natural and organic economic growth.

Lead with Truth and Trust
I will lead with steadfast dedication to the people of South Dakota, ensuring every decision and action consistently reflects integrity and reliability to build trust and accountability.

Enhance Government Accessibility
I plan to further improve public access to records with modern, user-friendly tools, making government more transparent and responsive to South Dakotans.

Serve with Proven Dedication
I will draw on my legislative experience and community service, I’ll bring fresh energy and bold solutions to make the Secretary of State’s office a model of efficiency and integrity.


