Byron I. Callies
Byron I. Callies is a lifelong Watertown resident who served nearly 41 years in the South Dakota Army National Guard, retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 2006. He also worked as a college professor for a decade before winning election to the South Dakota House of Representatives in 2022, where he served on the Commerce & Energy, Education, and Military & Veterans Affairs committees. After losing his 2024 primary bid, Callies is returning to seek the District 5 House seat again in 2026.
Why they’re
Sensible
Byron Callies brings rare depth to the District 5 race: four decades of National Guard leadership, classroom experience as a professor, and a term in the House where he navigated complex energy, education, and veterans bills. His committee record shows he can work across issue areas rather than camping in a single lane. Watertown's housing shortage — a problem Callies flagged during his prior term — remains unresolved, and his hands-on familiarity with the district's needs makes him a credible voice for practical solutions.
Key positions
“We need to address the housing shortage — Watertown is currently short about 800 units and that affects families and economic growth across the district.”
“Serving in the National Guard for 41 years gives me a deep understanding of what our veterans and military families need from their state government.”
“Having served on the Education Committee and taught at the college level, I know that investing in our students and technical programs is essential for South Dakota's future.”
Also running for
SD State House · District 05
Every other candidate filed for this seat, listed for transparency. Our Sensible slate reflects the full field — not just a single pick.