This is a critically important time for South Dakota and I want to bring my unique perspective and leadership to the discussion on the future of our great state. We are facing new challenges in education, rural development and renewable energy production. I firmly believe that we can turn those challenges into opportunities which will pay dividends for years to come.

What he's doing is elevating the perspective of the leadership of this department and asking: 'I don't know the answers to these questions, but they're on my mind and I want them on your mind too.'

As a father, I also want to make sure that my kids have the same chances for success that I have had. We have a duty to provide a first-class education for our students and we owe them our renewed energy to bring more high-paying jobs to the state.

I realize the frustration of filling up with $2.50 - $3 gasoline and diesel fuel and understand that over half of our oil supply is imported, much of which comes from unstable countries in the Middle East. Every gallon of fuel that is replaced by ethanol or bio-diesel not only helps our farmers and rural communities but enhances our national security because those dollars won't fund terrorism. Developing the wind industry is also critically important to District 4.

Eisenhower on LBJ: "He hadn't got the depth of mind nor the breath vision to carry great responsibility.

From my perspective, I've been fortunate to have that type of leadership.