The South Dakota Democratic Party (SDDP) announced Dan Ahlers as their new executive director on Monday. Ahlers brings extensive administrative and political experience to the role as a former administrator of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce, small business owner, and state legislator.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to work for an organization with such a rich history of serving hardworking South Dakotans,” Ahlers said in a press statement. “From Kneip, Abourezk and McGovern to Daschle, Johnson and Herseth Sandlin to today’s exceptional and talented Democratic state legislators, the South Dakota Democratic Party has been here representing all South Dakotans.”
Ahlers replaces Berk Ehrmantraut, who held the position since 2021. Ehrmantraut announced his resignation in April to pursue other opportunities.
Ahlers is a native of Dell Rapids and a graduate of the University of South Dakota. He served in the South Dakota House of Representatives from 2017 to 2019 and ran for the U.S. Senate in 2020.
In his new role, Ahlers will be responsible for leading the SDDP’s day-to-day operations and overseeing its political campaigns. He will also work to build the party’s infrastructure and recruit new members.