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Stu Whitney

Stu Whitney

Total 131 Posts
  • Sioux Falls, SD
Title: investigative reporter; expertise: politics, justice, education, health care, demographics, immigration, sports; language spoken: English; contact: 605-759-4576 / stu.whitney@sdnewswatch.org

State prison project draws strong views, harsh criticism

Perspectives from neighbors, policy analysts, law enforcement and governors show plenty of division surrounding South Dakota's plan to build a new prison in rural Lincoln County.

Lutheran Social Services calls Musk's illegal payment claims 'completely baseless'

Tech billionaire Elon Musk accused refugee resettlement programs of receiving federal funds illegally, even though Congress approved the spending.

Ballot measure battle could curtail South Dakota's direct democracy

Since 1898, state voters have had the power to propose a law or amendment at elections. Some Republican legislators want to make the process harder.

Greg Sands overcame addiction and prison to find success. Now he's seeking a final chapter.

The founder of Sands Wall Systems went from nearly ruining his life to helping others, but the pain is still there. "He still feels shame about it," says his wife.

South Dakota Legislature: Property taxes, pipelines, prisons (and more)

What to watch for as the state's 105 lawmakers convene in Pierre on Tuesday for the 100th session.

Main theme for South Dakota politics in 2025? Buckle up.

Noem, Thune prepare for new roles in Washington as South Dakota awaits a new governor and early 2026 election intrigue.

Family seeks answers after man killed in raid

Zander Zephier was shot after law enforcement used pepper spray and entered the basement of his family's home on the Yankton Sioux Reservation.
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