In a Sioux Falls debate on Friday we get a preview of how the next governor of South Dakota views the role of government and our constitutional rights.
According to an Associated Press report, “Democrat Scott Heidepriem and Republican Dennis Daugaard agreed about supporting the smoking ban on the November ballot.”
Neither of these candidates respects the rights of individuals and business owners. They both believe it is incumbent upon government to make decisions on how to run private businesses. Some may not see this as a big deal. IT IS A BIG DEAL. South Dakota citizens are bright enough to make their own decisions about whether to patronize a business that allows smoking. And business owners have the right to make their own decisions on how to operate those businesses.
This issue is not about smoking. It is not about 2nd hand smoke. It is about whether we are free to make our own decisions as business owners and consumers. It is not very comforting that our next governor, whichever candidate it is, believes it is acceptable for State government to make those choices for us.
At a time when the Federal government is attacking our freedom on every front, we need a governor who will stand up for our rights.
When I look at these two men on issues of defending our freedoms all I see is a “VACANCY” sign.
Gordon Howie-Rapid City, SD
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