Bret Swanson

Bret Swanson was born in Denver, Colorado. He earned a bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1983 and a graduate degree from the University of South Dakota in 2003. Swanson's career experience includes working as a educator.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm an educator. I have taught in elementary and middle schools. For the last twenty years, I have worked in a variety of colleges and universities. For five years, I served on the local school board. While my parents were raised in western South Dakota, I grew up in Denver. In 1991, I accepted a teaching position in Rapid City. Before that, I taught in Japan. I have also been lucky enough to teach in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. My wife and I have four grown children and eleven grandchildren. Unhappy with South Dakota's one-party rule and the inherent corruption it fosters, I decided to run for office.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

To expose the ruling party's corruption, to improve the state's reputation, to be honest and transparent.To enhance worker rights: raise minimum wage to $20/hr, enforce due process protection (no more right to work).To address tax equity.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As an educator, I worry about how education has been overly politicized. Teachers want and deserve autonomy. The state and other outside organizations are trying encroach and influence what happens in the classroom.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I admire Ralph Nader because of his courage, intelligence, and selflessness; Bob Dylan for being Bob, being constantly creative, and for not really caring what other people think; and Muhammed Ali for his bravery and creativity.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

My favorite book is Henderson the Rain King by Saul Bellow. My favorite album is Dylan's Blood on the Tracks. My favorite poem is Traveling through the Dark by William Stafford. My favorite films are Godfathers I and II, and Tombstone.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, diplomacy, civility, humor.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I'm honest, empathetic, and have a decent sense of humor.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To honestly work to improve the lives of his/her constituents.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Neil Armstrong stepping on the moon. I was nine.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked behind the counter at a Baskin and Robbins for one one summer.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Henderson the Rain King--funny, surprising, great ending.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Superman

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Highway to Hell

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I quit drinking in 1991, smartest move I ever made.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Open and productive.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

To be more honest, more just, and more fair.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Some experience is helpful.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

You should work together.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

Independent review board.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Education, budget, tribal relations, healthcare.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Paul Wellstone

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Undecided.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

One of my volunteers needs a walker to move around. He cannot drive. When I asked him what issues are important to him, he said that he wished there were more employment opportunities for people like him.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

No.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes.