S.D. Democrats Invite High School Students to Apply to YELL! Program

FEB. 22, 2024 - High school students from across the state are invited to participate in the South Dakota Democratic Party (SDDP)’s annual Young Elected Legislative Leaders (YELL)! program that will be held on April 20, 2024, in Pierre. 

YELL! is an annual event sponsored by SDDP that unites young Democrats from across the state to participate in a mock legislative session with Democratic legislators, SDDP staff, and other South Dakota Democratic leaders. A bill writing portion of YELL! will take place via Zoom on April 16, from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

"This is a great opportunity for young people to better understand how they can contribute to the future of their communities and their state through public policy," said Sarah Mechtenberg, Chair of the Yankton County Democrats. "Yankton High School students have participated in YELL! in past years and it sparked their interest in supporting our work here at the local level. We would love to continue that tradition."

Any high school student in South Dakota who is interested in participating in the 2024 YELL! program must submit the short online application no later than April 10, 2024. Click here to access the application form.

Ryan Cwach Receives George McGovern Grassroots Award

June 10, 2023 - Former D-18 State Representative and Yankton native Ryan Cwach was presented with the George McGovern Grassroots Award as part of the South Dakota State Democratic Party’s annual McGovern Day celebration on Saturday, June 3, 2023.

The George McGovern Grassroots Award is given annually to someone who has contributed substantially to the mission and work of the South Dakota Democratic Party. This person is a statewide leader in Democratic affairs who has contributed to registering voters and getting out the vote. 

Cwach was recognized for his work as a state representative that gained him respect with leaders on both sides of the aisle and across this state. He was specifically cited for his work with the Bluestem PAC to engage voters and improve voter turnout helped elect new leaders to our state legislature.

“Ryan doesn’t shy away from hard work and leads by example. He shared his strategies and helped many with messaging, money, and advice. He always had time to help,” said SD State Representative Linda Duba when presenting the award.

Cwach was one of three people from across the state who were honored with awards. “Each year at McGovern Day, we recognize three of our most dedicated leaders and volunteers within the Party. We are fortunate to have so many great nominees for this year’s awards,” said SDDP Executive Director Dan Ahlers. “Our McGovern Day Award winners demonstrate the dedication and commitment necessary to have a positive impact on the Democratic Party and their communities.”