Understanding South Dakota Through a Broader Lens: Why Experience Matters More Than Geography
By Jerry Odom
March 25, 2025
Some detractors have claimed that because I didn’t grow up in South Dakota, I can’t possibly understand its people, values, or needs. They argue that only a lifelong resident can lead this state as governor. I respectfully disagree—and I believe South Dakotans deserve a leader whose experiences bring a deeper, broader perspective to the challenges we face. Let me explain why my journey equips me to serve this state better than ever.
A Journey Across America
I may not have been born in South Dakota, but I’ve called it home for over eight years, drawn here by its independent spirit and resilient values. More importantly, I’ve traveled to every single state in the union—50 states, countless communities, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling cities of the East Coast to the rural heartlands of the Midwest, I’ve seen what makes America tick. I’ve witnessed firsthand what success looks like—and what failure looks like—when it comes to governance, economic policies, and community strength.
In my travels, I’ve seen states thrive under leaders who prioritize liberty, limited government, and personal responsibility. I’ve also seen states falter under the weight of overreach, inefficiency, and policies that stifle opportunity. These experiences have given me a unique vantage point—a lens through which I can see what works, what doesn’t, and how South Dakota can avoid the pitfalls that have plagued other places.
The Value of Diverse Experience
Detractors might argue that growing up in one place gives you a deeper understanding of its culture. But I believe that staying in one singular place can sometimes limit your perspective. My life experiences—spanning different states, cultures, and challenges—have taught me more than I could ever learn from a single hometown. As a solutions architect for over 30 years, I’ve tackled complex problems for some of the world’s largest companies, learning to adapt, innovate, and find answers where others see only obstacles.
When my family and I moved to South Dakota eight years ago, we weren’t just looking for a place to live—we were seeking the quintessential American lifestyle. We found it here: a state where independence isn’t just a word, but a way of life. I’ve immersed myself in this community, listening to its people, understanding its struggles, and embracing its values. I may not have grown up here, but I’ve chosen to build my life here—and that choice reflects my deep commitment to this state.
South Dakota Deserves a Leader Who Sees the Bigger Picture
South Dakota doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The challenges we face—whether it’s federal overreach, economic pressures, or the need for innovation—are shaped by broader forces. A leader who has only ever known one place might miss the bigger picture, unable to draw on lessons from beyond our borders. My experiences across the country give me a unique ability to anticipate challenges, adopt proven solutions, and steer South Dakota toward success.
For example, I’ve seen how states that embrace free-market principles—like reducing regulations and rejecting income taxes—create thriving economies. That’s why I’m committed to making South Dakota a free-market technology hub, bringing high-paying jobs to our communities. I’ve also seen the failures of bloated bureaucracies, which is why I’ll launch SD-DOGE (South Dakota Department of Government Efficiency) to cut waste and return power to the people. These aren’t just ideas—they’re strategies informed by what I’ve seen work elsewhere, tailored to South Dakota’s unique strengths.
A People-Driven Campaign, Not a Birthplace Contest
This campaign isn’t about where I was born—it’s about where we’re going. It’s about us, the people of South Dakota, choosing a future where liberty thrives, opportunities abound, and government serves rather than controls. I don’t need to have grown up here to understand that South Dakotans value independence, hard work, and community. I see it every day in the way you live, work, and support one another.
The establishment might want to turn this race into a birthplace contest, but I’m focused on what really matters: your approval, your voice, and your vision for this state. My diverse experiences don’t disqualify me—they make me a stronger candidate, one who can bring fresh ideas and proven strategies to the table while honoring the values that make South Dakota special.
Let’s Build South Dakota’s Future Together
I’ve seen what failure looks like, and I’ve seen what success looks like. I’ve chosen South Dakota as my home because I believe in its potential to be a beacon of liberty for the nation. With your support, we can eliminate property taxes, reject state income taxes, and create a future where our kids don’t have to leave to chase their dreams. This isn’t about where I grew up—it’s about where we’re headed.
Will you join me in this people-driven movement? Together, we can show the naysayers that leadership isn’t about geography—it’s about vision, experience, and a commitment to the people. Let’s make South Dakota the envy of the nation.
Jerry Odom
Candidate for Governor of South Dakota