PIERRE–– Today, Senator Billie Sutton became the first gubernatorial candidate to be officially placed on the 2018 ballot. On Tuesday, Sutton's campaign for Governor and a group of supporters submitted nominating petitions to the Secretary of State. In total, approximately 100 circulators gathered 2,422 petition signatures from voters across the state on Sutton's behalf–– about 3.5 times more signatures than the number required. After sampling the signature submitted, the Secretary of State's office officially accepted Sutton's petitions today.
This isn’t the first time Sutton's campaign has shattered expectations. At the end of 2017, Sutton had raised nearly $880,000, which is 2.5 times more than any Democratic candidate for Governor in South Dakota has ever raised at that stage of the race.
“I’m grateful for the support I’ve gotten from folks all across the state," Sutton said. "Together we have built unparalleled momentum that has surpassed records of past campaigns. We’ve been able to gather about three-and-a-half times the number of signatures needed for our petitions and raised two-and-a half-times more than previous Democrats running for governor thanks to our strong network of grassroots supporters and volunteers.”
Sutton has been met with wide support as he’s circled the state. He’s received over 4,500 unique contributions, with 98% of his donors from South Dakota. He visited with hundreds of people in 29 counties on his listening tour last fall and has received support from all corners of the state in his campaign.
With hundreds of volunteers, supporters, and more donations coming in every day, the state of the Sutton campaign is strong. Sutton's bi-partisan cross-party appeal and strong support in rural South Dakota add up to a clear path to victory in the race.
Billie Sutton is a rancher, financial professional at a small community bank, State Senator, former professional rodeo cowboy, fifth-generation South Dakotan, and candidate for Governor.