Mainstream/national media coverage of the continuous fighting between political parties, the perception of a growing disconnect between lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and their constituents back home and a political campaign season that never seems to end are some of the common excuses people give for not voting.
Whatever their reasons were, the overwhelming majority of registered voters in Pierre chose not to vote in the June 3, 2025, city commission election. Despite having five candidates on the ballot and two open seats, only 1147 (1054 election day and 93 absentee) of the 10,070 registered voters in Pierre voted– a 10.5% voter turnout.
Former Pierre Mayor Laurie Gill was disappointed by the turnout. She says the people elected to city, county, school and other local government entities are making decisions that directly impact the daily lives of the people who live in those areas.
Drastic changes in federal government policies, the use of complicated verbiage to explain ballot issues and financial uncertainty caused by the increasing costs of good and services are some of the other reasons people give for not voting in an election. Gill understands why people are frustrated, but…..
For the next election, Gill hopes those who regularly vote will encourage others to also participate in the election process.
The Stanley County School Board election held on June 3, 2025, also had only 10.5% voter turnout.
The Pierre City Commission will canvass the recount of the June 3 election ballots during their meeting this evening. Results show Robin Lerseth and Matthew Reitzel being the top two vote getters. Both will take their oath of office for a three year term early next month.
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