I ran for the State Senate. I spent very little, and worked with the party. I spent about $4500 – to lose 60-40. I am disappointed, since I underperformed the partisan split in the district (which was more like 40-35-25 R-D-I). I needed to hold the Ds and win 70% of the I, which I did not do. First race, but I doubt I’ll run again, since the advantages I had in this race will be gone in 2 years.

Others in senate races spent a hell of a lot more, and also lost 60-40.  Many of them beat the partisan split. Good for them.

We went in with a 30R-5D senate, and came out with a 28R-7D senate. Many of the districts, esp in the rural West-River area (west of the Missouri River) were unopposed R races. In Sioux Falls, we had competitive races. In one case, a guy spent 50K, knocked on 5000 doors, and got 60-40. Hard place to be a Dem.

On the bright side, two referred measures (laws passed which gained signatures to place them on the ballot) both lost big-time. One was a teacher destruction bill. The other was a bill to create a huge slush fund. I ran to help education, but gained nothing from tying myself to the bill.

So, an interesting experience. I went in with my eyes open, and had hopes of pulling off an upset. Unfortunately, I did not win.

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