From the latest episode of the Dakota Town Hall podcast, South Dakota political leaders and candidates zeroed in on affordability, voter turnout and the state’s ongoing property tax debate as the 2026 election season intensifies.

State Sen. Casey Crabtree said the economic pressure facing families remains the defining issue across the state.

“I think without a doubt, the number one issue across the state is affordability. It is strengthening the economy,” Crabtree said during the episode. He added that the candidate who best explains how to put “more money back in people’s pockets” will likely gain the edge in the final stretch before Election Day.

The discussion also featured District 8 House candidate John Nelson, a Lake Preston farmer and longtime agriculture leader, who said his campaign is rooted in public service and rural representation.

“South Dakota as a whole has been good to me and my family,” Nelson said. “It’s just time to give back and to try to bring some leadership that I’ve learned over the years.”

On taxes, Nelson acknowledged the frustration many landowners feel, while also stressing the reality of funding schools and local governments.

“Property tax is a reality,” he said. “Keeping government efficient, and then growing that tax base … that’s how you work your way out of property taxes.”

The episode also touched on election logistics, including delays tied to South Dakota’s early voting window and ballot printing challenges. Crabtree argued the broader goal should remain increasing participation.

“More people at the ballot, more people taking part in the process is going to be good for everybody,” he said.

For western South Dakota listeners, the affordability conversation may resonate especially strongly as Rapid City continues balancing growth, housing pressure and infrastructure demands, all of which tie directly into the larger statewide tax and economic development debate now taking shape ahead of November.