Story perspectives

Erickson Leads Sioux Falls Mayoral Race by Two Votes

6/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Three Sioux Falls city council seats were decided on Tuesday.
Former state legislator Christine Erickson leads Democrat Jamie Smith by two votes in the mayoral race, pending a recount.
County officials reviewed five provisional ballots on Wednesday, validating one for each candidate and leaving the margin unchanged.
The council will certify results Friday, opening a recount window; if the count stands, Erickson would be Sioux Falls' first woman mayor.

History

Historical Context

After serving on the city council (1981-82) and the county board (1985-92), Susan Golding became San Diego’s first female mayor in the 1992 election, running as a progressive Republican. Her 1996 re-election helped the city land the Republican National Convention, illustrating the West Coast’s growing acceptance of women leaders and moderate GOP politics in regional politics.

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Story summary

Three Sioux Falls city council seats were decided on Tuesday.
Former state legislator Christine Erickson leads Democrat Jamie Smith by two votes in the mayoral race, pending a recount.
County officials reviewed five provisional ballots on Wednesday, validating one for each candidate and leaving the margin unchanged.
The council will certify results Friday, opening a recount window; if the count stands, Erickson would be Sioux Falls' first woman mayor.

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