Background
Joy Hohn was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Hohn career experience includes working as a commercial pilot. She earned a bachelor's degree from Augustana University in 1989.[1]
- Bachelor's:
- Augustana University, 1989
Campaign themes
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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
Hello! I’m Joy Hohn, republican candidate for South Dakota State Senate in District 9. As a wife, mom, daughter, sister, neighbor, farmer and friend, I’m driven to make a difference as a voice for the people of South Dakota.
My servant-leadership skills were seeded on the farm, proven in the air and expanded in the grassroots efforts advocating for property rights and local control with others across the state.
I understand agriculture is the heart of our livelihood, the fiber of our communities, and key to the economy of our state. My husband, Rod and I farm alongside my father, brother, and college-age children raising corn, soybeans, cattle and buffalo. Growing up on the farm and working in the fields, I was taught responsibility,
integrity, and the “Golden Rule” of respecting others.
Flying as a professional pilot throughout my 40-year career has required me to be steadfast, unwavering and trustworthy. At the same time, I’ve had a front-row seat to the importance of commerce, innovation, and business necessary to keep jobs in our state thriving.
As a lifelong resident of Minnehaha County, I have been an active mentor, leader, and volunteer for youth organizations, education, and church.
I am eager to listen, learn and would be honored to represent South Dakotans.
• Christian
• Conservative Republican
• Family farmer-rancher
• Commercial pilot
• Small business owner
• Personal Rights advocate
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?
PROTECTING YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS
Individual rights are basic principles of our U.S. Constitution and central to our freedoms. American rights include religion, family, property, education, and the right to bear arms.
For nearly a decade, I’ve devoted a significant amount of time working alongside others to increase awareness and promote better solutions to protect personal property rights, since my family’s rights have been jeopardized. I have collaborated with municipalities, townships, counties, lawmakers, elected officials, neighbors and other individuals passionate about protecting property rights. I will work to keep our land American-owned, controlled and protected.LIMITING TAXES & GOVERNMENT OVERREACH
Continued increases in property taxes need to be addressed. I will work to limit rising taxes coupled with fiscally responsible spending.
The best government is transparent, accountable and closest to its people, empowering those to make the decisions that will live with their consequences. Local control is central to a democratic government and foundational American principles.PUTTING FAMILIES & EDUCATION FIRST
Families provide the foundation of a thriving society, where learning and values are instilled. Education is the cornerstone of a thriving community, which in turn ensures a robust workforce. As your elected Senator, I am committed to promoting healthy and strong families, along with advocating for education, while working toward keeping more of your hard-earned dollars and decisions at home.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
Protecting Personal Constitutional Rights, Property Tax, Retaining Local Government Control, Pro Family and Educational Opportunities
Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?
My mother
During her entire life, she lived the life she believed.
My mother's actions matched her beliefs.
What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?
Integrity
Trustworthy
Good character
Courage
Good listener
Independent thinker
Open minded
Willing to work with others
Good communication skills
Decision maker
Compassionate
What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?
To be a voice for the people
To protect and preserve Constitutional rights
What legacy would you like to leave?
A legacy of hope for the future.
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
September 11, 2001 terror attacks
As a commercial airline pilot, I was scheduled to fly that afternoon.
What was your very first job? How long did you have it?
Working on the farm from an early age until present
What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?
Fiscally responsible spending.
Educational opportunities.
Blending environmental goals and intelligent land use with economic development
Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?
Dependent on each individual's background and goals
Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.
Yes! In order to have positive change, strong relationships built through communication and trust need to be developed among legislators.
Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?
Senator Brent Hoffman
Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?
Yes, only under the parameters of the South Dakota Constitution
What committees interest you?
Agriculture & Natural Resources
Transportation
State Affairs
Local Government
Education
What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?
A well-functioning government will be accountable and transparent, taking into consideration the needs and interests of their citizens in their decision making.
Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?
Yes - there should be a timeframe that the legislature can not change an initiated measure that was passed by the voters
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
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