Republican Tony Venhuizen has announced his candidacy to represent Sioux Falls' District 13 in the state House of Representatives.
Venhuizen is entering the race with political experience and familial connection. His grandfather was state Sen. Henry Poppen, one of the longest serving legislators in state history. His wife’s father is former Gov. Dennis Daugaard.
Venhuizen now works in trust and estate law. Previously, Venhuizen worked as gubernatorial chief of staff for both the Daugaard and Noem administrations. He currently serves on the state Board of Regents.
District 13 is currently served by two Republican House representatives, Sue Peterson and Richard Thomason. Venhuizen is the first person in the district to file the necessary petition signatures to become a candidate for House in this year's elections.
The primary election is in June and the general election is in November. All 105 seats in the Legislature will be up for election.