Mellissa Heermann
Mellissa Heermann is a District 7 incumbent who brings a background spanning healthcare administration, technology management, and local government. She earned a bachelor's in international business from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master's in operations management from South Dakota State University. Before the Legislature she served as revenue cycle director at Brookings Health System, sat on the Brookings School Board for six years, and served as mayor of Lake Preston. She has represented District 7 since 2023 and is seeking re-election in 2026.
Why they’re
Sensible
Mellissa Heermann has used her seat on the House Health and Human Services Committee to champion protections for vulnerable South Dakotans. Her prime sponsorship of HB 1138 — requiring licensure and background checks for non-medical home care agencies — showed willingness to take on industry opposition in defense of seniors and adults with disabilities. Her SDEA Friend of Education recognition and school board experience signal a sustained commitment to public education. Heermann's policy-over-politics style and constituent focus are hallmarks of the sensible leadership District 7 needs.
Key positions
“The easiest way to protect our vulnerable South Dakotans in their home is to not hand bad actors the key to their front door.”
“Not having a license to operate is a pretty big stick — and families deserve to know that the person caring for their loved one meets basic standards.”
“As a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives, I will draw on my experiences in management, community leadership, volunteerism, city government, the Brookings School Board and as a mother of three for strong, strategic decision making in Pierre.”
“Keeping our heads in the sand while people are getting taken advantage of, it just hurts the soul.”
Also running for
SD State House · District 07
Every other candidate filed for this seat, listed for transparency. Our Sensible slate reflects the full field — not just a single pick.