Democrats Can’t Win In South Dakota. Senate Candidate Brian Bengs Gonna See If An Independent Can. Brian Bengs, a veteran and former professor, is running as an independent for the US Senate in South Dakota, aiming to escape the state’s strong Republican leanings. He is motivated by his opposition to the actions of ICE and DHS, and believes an independent run can resonate with voters tired of partisanship. Bengs joins other independent candidates in red states, seeking to bring attention to issues like government accountability and systemic reform.

• 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.