Republican U.S. Senate challenger Justin McNeal is calling for a debate with incumbent Sen. Mike Rounds ahead of South Dakota’s June 2 GOP primary election.
McNeal made the request Thursday during a campaign stop in Aberdeen, where he spoke at a Brown County Republican Women’s meeting. A spokesman for Rounds said no debates have been requested, planned or agreed to.
A Rapid City businessman, Navy veteran and former certified financial planner, McNeal said federal debt is the primary reason for his challenge. He said long‑serving politicians are unlikely to address the issue, citing the need for reforms to Social Security, health care spending and defense budgeting.
McNeal, who previously ran unsuccessfully for U.S. House, acknowledged he is new to campaigning and is working to attend Republican events statewide. He also said he is pro‑life and expressed concern about prolonged U.S. involvement in Middle East conflicts connected to Iran.
The June primary will determine the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate race in November.
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