06/01/2026
Get to Know "Pepper Jack" Kolbeck! Jack Kolbeck has served District 13 in the South Dakota Legislature for nearly a decade, most recently returning to the House after being appointed by Governor Rhoden. Thanks to his extensive previous service, Jack brings incredible insight and a true, deep understanding of the complex problems facing our state today.
Serving in the 2025 and 2026 sessions has brought both hard-fought struggles and major victories—which realistically go hand-in-hand in state government. Rep. Kolbeck was assigned to the heavy-lifting Appropriations Committee, a vital role that demands an immense amount of time and dedication. Because of the sheer workload required to build the state budget, serving on Appropriations actually prohibits a legislator from sitting on any other regular committee.
His days start early in the morning and stretch late into the evening. While other lawmakers focus on hearing individual policy bills, Rep. Kolbeck spends his hours listening to various state agencies outline their department operations and budget needs. He also coordinates constantly with fellow legislators to figure out exactly how new bills will impact the state’s general budget, or the "G-Bill." On top of all that, he has worked hard to prepare and sponsor meaningful legislation to move South Dakota forward.
Lately, I’ve seen his opponents running negative campaign efforts, labeling him as "unfit" or claiming he is "not representing" us based on a single vote or political scorecard. But did they actually stop to ask him why he voted the way he did? No—and that’s exactly what his opponents are hoping you won't do. They want to tell a small, oversimplified story that misleads.
Before passing judgment or blindly agreeing with a smear campaign designed to push out one of District 13’s best leaders, reach out to Jack and ask him for yourself. I guarantee you’ll hear a common-sense story that makes complete sense. This is politics, but we don't have to fall for negative smear tactics.
Let's keep a proven, hard-working leader fighting for our budget and our community. Vote Jack Kolbeck on June 2!
