South Dakota Election: Rounds Secures Third Term

U.S. Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota has secured re-election, winning a decisive majority in a race called by the Associated Press when 99% of ballots were counted. Rounds captured 60.5% of the total vote, leaving his opponent, Independent Brian Bengs, with 39.5%. The result confirms the incumbent's hold on the seat following a campaign marked by a crowded primary field.

Rounds, a Republican, has served in the Senate since 2015 after his initial election in 2014. His legislative work has centered on national defense, veterans' benefits, agriculture, and Native American affairs. He currently chairs the Cybersecurity Subcommittee of the Armed Services Committee and holds seats on the Appropriations, Banking, Indian Affairs, and Intelligence panels. President Donald Trump issued a complete and total endorsement for Rounds on July 21, 2025.

Bengs, a military veteran and former political science professor, emerged as the main challenger after Democrat Julian Beaudion suspended his campaign in August. Bengs previously ran as a Democrat in the 2022 Senate race against John Thune, though he states he was a lifelong Independent who registered as a Democrat for practical reasons at the time.

The challenger’s platform focused on progressive policy goals. These included expanding public healthcare options, lowering the Medicare eligibility age, raising taxes on corporations and high earners, and imposing congressional term limits. Bengs also advocated for curbing campaign spending. The outcome leaves Rounds with another term to continue his committee leadership and legislative agenda in Washington.

Bengs' campaign highlighted his experience as a veteran and academic, contrasting with Rounds' long-standing presence in federal government. The race concluded with Rounds maintaining a substantial lead over the independent candidate. The victory was confirmed shortly after the majority of votes were tallied, ending the general election contest in South Dakota.