MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — South Dakota state Sen. Glen Vilhauer has announced he is running for reelection to the Senate District 5 seat, which includes Watertown and four surrounding townships.

Vilhauer, first elected in November 2024, serves on the Senate and Joint Appropriations Committee. A retired certified public accountant, he has lived in Watertown with his wife, Darla, for 45 years, according to the announcement.

In a statement, Vilhauer said he wants to continue representing District 5 and cited experience gained during his first year in Pierre.

The announcement highlighted priorities from the 2025 legislative session, including funding for public education and technical colleges, including Lake Area Technical College in Watertown. It also cited support for the South Dakota National Guard and efforts aimed at maintaining local control for city, county and school district decisions.

Vilhauer’s background includes service in the South Dakota Army National Guard, time on the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System board, and eight years on the Watertown City Council, the announcement said.

For the 2026 election cycle, absentee voting begins April 17, 2026. The primary election is June 2, 2026, according to the South Dakota Secretary of State.

Northeast Radio SD also plans a “Virtual Crackerbarrel” online Jan. 6 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.