Mike Rounds

Republican candidate for United States Senator, South Dakota · Incumbent

U.S. Senator from South Dakota (incumbent); former insurance and real estate business owner

Mike Rounds is a Republican who has represented South Dakota in the U.S. Senate since 2015. Before that he was a state senator and served two terms as South Dakota's 31st governor (2003–2011). He announced a bid for a third Senate term in January 2026, won the Republican primary against Justin McNeal, and faces independent Brian Bengs in the November 3, 2026 general election.

Where Rounds stands

Artificial intelligence: Supports continued U.S. development of AI. He argues that China, Russia and Iran are developing it, and he is concerned about those nations getting ahead of the United States.
Education: Supports eliminating the U.S. Department of Education and favors local control of schools. He says a federal 'one size fits all' approach does not serve students.
Abortion: Describes himself as pro-life. As governor he signed a trigger law that took effect after Roe v. Wade was overturned and bans abortion in South Dakota except when the mother's life is at risk.
Energy: Supports an 'all-of-the-above' energy approach and more domestic production. Opposes what he calls excessive federal regulation of energy producers.
Border security and immigration: Says border security is essential to national security. Has supported funding for a border wall, surveillance technology and more personnel to stop drug and human trafficking.
Gun rights: Says he strongly supports the Second Amendment and works to protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners. He holds an A+ rating from the NRA Political Victory Fund.
National security: Serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and says he works to keep the U.S. military the best in the world. Cites Reagan's 'peace through strength' principle.
Taxes: Cites tax cuts that he says 'put more money back in your pocket' as a Senate accomplishment and lists keeping taxes low as a priority.

Background

U.S. Senator from South Dakota, 2015–present
Governor of South Dakota (31st), 2003–2011
Former South Dakota state senator
Former business owner (insurance and real estate)
Member, Senate Armed Services Committee
Won 2026 Republican primary against Justin McNeal

In the news

Poll: Sen. Rounds leads challenger Bengs 56-37% South Dakota News Watch, October 22, 2026
Sen. Mike Rounds' office evacuated as suspicious letters target dozens of lawmakers nationwide KOTA Territory News, October 20, 2026
Challenger takes aim at incumbent's campaign finances in South Dakota US Senate race South Dakota Searchlight, October 16, 2026
Rounds to face Independent challenge for U.S. Senate KELOLAND, September 18, 2026

Also running for United States Senator

Brian L Bengs Independent

Sources

Last researched October 23, 2026. Written in neutral language from the sources above. Spot an error? See how to report it.