Day One: South Dakota Delegates at the DNC

South Dakota Delegation Arrives in Chicago for 2024 Democratic National Convention

South Dakota delegates to the Democratic National Convention have arrived in Chicago, beginning a week filled with activity and energy that will launch into the 2024 Presidential Election.

South Dakota’s delegates are part of a group of 4,567 delegates nationally coming to the Convention, which will run from Monday, August 19 through Thursday, August 22. Sunday evening, the DNC hosted a big welcome party for delegates at Navy Pier, entertaining everyone with local food and music.

On Aug 19th, the delegates will join an anticipated 50,000 people at the first-ever “DemPalooza” at McCormick Place, which includes a slate of training, panels, and programming hosted by the DNC and Harris-Walz campaign. Programming will focus on equipping Democratic leaders across the country with tools for effective messaging, polling briefings, and skills for community building.

McCormick Place will play host to 33 council and caucus meetings during the week. On Aug 19th, South Dakota delegates are expected to attend the Black Caucus, Native American Caucus, LGBTQ+ Caucus, Small Business Council, and the Labor Council, reflecting the “infinite variety” of the South Dakota delegation and its representation of all walks of life in our state.

The Democratic National Convention officially gavels in this evening inside the United Center, focusing on a theme of “For the People.” Speeches and programming will highlight the results that President Joe Biden has delivered for the American people and Kamala Harris’ commitment to working for everyday people across the country. President Joe Biden is expected to give remarks, as well as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson will also welcome delegates.

“The goal of our delegation to the Democratic National Convention is to make sure rural, less populous states like South Dakota have a voice at the table as we create a party platform and influence future policy,” said District 15 House Candidate Erik Muckey, who is serving as the South Dakota delegation’s Communications Captain. “Our delegation embodies the state’s moniker–’land of infinite variety’–by showing just how widely diverse Democratic representation is across our state. We are excited and ready to share South Dakota’s voice on the national stage.”

For questions, you can contact the SDDP Executive Director Dan Ahlers at [email protected] or 605-940-3071.