Leslie Gerrish

Background

Gerrish is based in Vermillion and runs a small business, according to her campaign information. She is running for the South Dakota House in District 17, which she says serves Clay and Union counties.

Sources: Leslie for House, South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Meet the Candidates: Leslie Gerrish (2026)

What the candidate has said

Statements are attributed to the linked sources.

• Schools and water

  She says public schools need adequate funding, including resources for students with special-education needs, and that South Dakota should protect its water and other natural resources.

  South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Meet the Candidates: Leslie Gerrish (2026)

• Data centers

  She supports a legislative moratorium on data-center development until more is known, saying growth should be managed to protect farmland, water, small businesses and communities.

  South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Meet the Candidates: Leslie Gerrish (2026)

• Affordability

  She says affordability is a concern across the district.

  South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Meet the Candidates: Leslie Gerrish (2026)