Dennis Olson, the Democratic National Committeeman from Huron, South Dakota, has been selected as the Midwest Regional Representative for the Democratic National Committee Rural Council. The announcement was made at the DNC’s recent summer meeting.
In this role, Olson will serve as the voice for rural communities across the Midwest, representing states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. He will play a key role in shaping and supporting the DNC’s rural outreach strategy over the next four years.
Olson brings a lifetime of experience in public service and rural advocacy to the position. He worked for 38 years as an Administrative Officer with the USDA Farm Service Agency, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges faced by rural communities, farmers, and agricultural workers.
“There’s so much at stake for rural America,” Olson said. “We need to revitalize the rural economy. It’s essential that we go out and listen—to truly grasp what matters to people, no matter their background or political beliefs. Farmers aren’t looking for handouts; they want access to markets. And it’s not just farmers—everyone in rural America is feeling the pinch.”
A strong advocate for grassroots engagement, Olson plans to focus on helping states build their own rural councils to better connect with rural voters and communities. He emphasized the need for authentic conversations, long-term investments, and practical solutions that uplift rural economies and voices.
Olson’s appointment reflects the DNC’s commitment to reconnecting with rural America by building trust, listening to local concerns, and ensuring those concerns are represented at the national level.
“Rural America is the heart of our country, and we need to listen to those who are working every day to keep it strong,” Olson added. “Together, we can ensure that the concerns of rural voters are prioritized and that our rural economy is set up for long-term success.”
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