Brian Mulder

Brian Mulder was born in Granite Falls, Minnesota. Mulder earned a bachelor's degree from Crown College in 2003. His career experience includes working as a managing director at Volunteers of America.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a Husband to my wife Chrissy and a father to my three children, Jeremiah, Noel, & Eli. I grew up on a farm in central Minnesota, was raised in the church, and became a Christian. My faith led to the development of my conservative values and service over self mentality towards people and the communities I have lived in.

Because of my Christian faith, I have been called into ministry. I have had the opportunity to work as a civilian alongside U.S. Military chaplains in Germany on U.S Military installations. I have worked as an Executive Pastor in a church in Sioux Falls, SD, with a congregation size of 2000+. Currently, I serve as a Managing Director at Volunteers of America- Dakotas, a faith-based non-profit in Sioux Falls that touches the lives of about 10,000 people annually.

I am still a licensed Pastor, and I have volunteered some of my time in the county jail and state prison, mentoring inmates. I have served as a team chaplain for sports teams and have served on many non-profit boards in my community.

I believe my experience makes me a uniquely qualified candidate for the House of Representatives.

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?

I am all for smaller Government, taxes and efficiencies that save the tax payer.In my current role I understand the needs of our community and state, and can offer reasonable solutions through public/ private partnerships.As a conservative, I am pro-life, and pro-second amendment.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My biggest passion would lie in the idea that government is not the answer to all our problems. Although we live in the nation's best state, I believe we can improve by creating better solutions and efficiencies for our citizens who need help with mental health, homelessness, childcare, veterans, and disabilities.

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

Modeling service over self, listening, and leadership.

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

I believe I am a proven leader who has a history of leading organizational change. This is done by building relationships, listening, casting vision, and empowering others.

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

To carry out the will of the people. In South Dakota, the state motto is "Under God the People Rule"

But also to provide real and practical solutions to problems.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That I made a difference through service.

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

I would say my very first job was growing up on the farm. We raised cattle, hogs, corn, and soybeans. I developed my work ethic and problem-solving skills on the farm. In some ways, I still have the job, as now my sister and brother-in-law operate the family farm, and I go back to help from time to time.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I could give the Cliche answer and say the Bible, which is very important to me. But to answer the question for this survey I would say "Messy Spirituality" by Mike Yaconelli. I just have always related to it.

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

AA by Walker Hayes

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

Saying no.

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

One that fosters open and honest communication, understanding that we are all working for what we believe is the outcome for the citizens of South Dakota.

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

We need to develop more workforce and workforce housing to meet the need that continues to grow here in South Dakota

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

I believe leadership experience matters.

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

Absolutely yes. Any good leader will tell you relationships matter.

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

yes.

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

not at this time

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

yes,

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

Sometimes yes.