Incumbent Rapid City Mayor Sam Kooiker rode a landslide into a second term in Tuesday’s municipal election.
Kooiker defeated State Senator Mark Kirkeby in the race for mayor, winning almost 73% of the vote.
SDPB’s Charles Michael Ray has this story.
The crowd of Sam Kooiker supporters erupted into cheers as the final poll results rolled in on Tuesday evening. Kooiker expressed gratitude to the voters and continued commitment to serving Rapid City.
“We worked very hard in this race and we had a vision of positive people focused government. And we articulated the vision. And I really appreciate the support of this city and I’m really excited to be their mayor for another two years,” says Kooiker.
For his part challenger Mark Kirkeby says he’s glad he was able to bring to light important issues in his campaign.
“I’m extremely proud of the positive campaign and message that we consistently brought. I never hopped in the mud or did any character assassinations that my opponent threw my way. So, I’m holding my head high,” says Kirkeby.
Kirkeby continues forward in a term as a State Senator. Kooiker now begins his second term as mayor.