Doug Sombke re-elected as South Dakota farmers union president

By Scout Nelson

Doug Sombke, a fourth-generation Brown County farmer, has been re-elected to serve his 10th term as President of the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU), marking his tenure as one of the longest in the organization's history. "It is an honor to serve South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers," Sombke stated, emphasizing his commitment to policy advancement and member-driven goals. A

Sombke's focus will remain on breaking up packer monopolies, reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (MCOOL), and strengthening property rights laws, in collaboration with the South Dakotans First Coalition. He will work closely with the board of directors, staff, and over 20,000 members, to advocate for these policy-driven focuses.

Aberdeen farmer Jeff Kippley has been elected as the new Vice President of SDFU, following Wayne Soren's decision to step down from his position. Kippley, who previously served as National Farmers Union Vice President, is excited to work with Sombke to support farm and ranch families in the state

The State Convention also saw the re-election of several key members. Wessington Springs farmer Scott Kolousek will continue as District 2 board director; David Reis, a rancher from Reliance, as District 4 board director; and Parade rancher Oren Lesmeister as District 6 board director. They join Gail Temple, Dallis Basel, and Chad Johnson, representing Districts 3, 5, and 7, respectively.

Sombke emphasized the board's dedication to supporting family farmers and ranchers in South Dakota, emphasizing their commitment to grassroots policy direction and collaborative efforts for the betterment of the next generation in agriculture.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages