Emmett Reistroffer
Emmett Reistroffer is a Rapid City business and public-policy professional who helped build Genesis Farms, South Dakota's largest state-licensed medical cannabis company, employing nearly 150 people in Box Elder and across the state. He is running in the 2026 Republican primary for House District 35 on a platform of taxpayer relief, fiscal accountability, and a Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) to cap government growth and return surplus revenues to South Dakotans.
Why they’re
Sensible
Emmett Reistroffer brings private-sector experience scaling a regulated industry to his bid for House District 35, with a fiscal platform anchored by a proposed Taxpayer Bill of Rights that would cap government growth and mandate refunds when revenues exceed limits. He positions himself as a results-oriented reformer focused on property tax relief, government accountability, and keeping South Dakota money in South Dakota. His business background at Genesis Farms demonstrates comfort with complex regulatory environments, and his willingness to call out both political extremes signals an independent streak. He is a first-time candidate challenging for an open seat in a competitive four-way Republican primary.
Key positions
“When we collect more tax revenue than what is needed, that tax revenue doesn't just go into an account — politicians' eyes get all big and they get all excited, what can we spend your money on. The average South Dakotan is done with that. We would like to see that returned.”
“Seeing such a prolific action of hate in our political dialogue just made me feel like it's time for my generation to step up, for younger people to get involved.”
Also running for
SD State House · District 35
Every other candidate filed for this seat, listed for transparency. Our Sensible slate reflects the full field — not just a single pick.