RAPID CITY, S.D. – A Democratic candidate for one of two open House seats in South Dakota’s District 35 is focusing his campaign on healthcare access and veteran mental health.
Ken Jeakins, a medically retired Air Force veteran, is seeking election in the district that includes Box Elder, Ellsworth Air Force Base and eastern Rapid City. Jeakins says breaking the stigma surrounding mental health treatment remains a major issue for active-duty service members and veterans.
He points to military culture as a factor that can discourage people from seeking help and says changing that mindset requires support from leaders at every level.
Jeakins recently received an endorsement from the veterans advocacy group VoteVets and advanced through the primary election unopposed.
He will face Republicans Dale Bartscher and Jason Fleming in November as voters choose two new representatives for the term-limited District 35 House seats.
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