Craig D. Evenson

Why is he running?

I am running for this office to represent the local community without strings to any political identity. I want to ensure their local Government is transparent and allows the public access to public documents. I also want to ensure there is more input from the public to better help the local leaders deliver better ordinances and policies.

Why are you an independent?

I decided to be an independent immediately on my first voter registration. I chose to do so because I believed that neither of the major parties represented my beliefs. I also believed that the dysfunction in politics and big money in politics ultimately hurt the recipients of the law created. I wanted to represent something different.

What are your top three priority issues? 

County Government Transparency, Public Safety. and Law and Order.

What are your positions that help support empowering independents (open primaries etc)? 

In my role at the State’s Attorney, I don’t have many policy positions which can support or empower independents within my position, however, on a personal level, I have encouraged other independent office holders within the county to find and utilize tools for independent candidates. I also believe in the concept of open primaries.

What will you do to support your fellow veterans and members of the military community? 

I support veterans in my practice as a prosecutor by identifying veterans who have the capability to reform or need some help and guidance from mental health professionals and consider them for veterans courts or other options to run-of-the-mill prosecutions. As a former commander, I also identify issues with defendants in the National Guard or reserves and ensure their defense counsel advises them of their responsibilities regarding their military career and guide defense counsel to advise that their clients gain proper advice from JAG defense counsel as soon as possible.

I believe I’m exactly who you are looking for, a true independent from the start of my political life who is a veteran and continues to serve in the SD Army National Guard. I have refused any money or assistance from all interest groups, whether partisan or non-partisan.

ENDORSEMENTS