District 11 Senate Race to Feature Childcare Proposals
Voters will decide on November 3 which candidate’s plan for childcare assistance and tax relief fits their family's needs.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Child Care
Live Poll
Do you support state-funded financial assistance to help families pay for childcare?
As the November 3, 2026, election approaches, candidate Aaron Matson is outlining his platform for the District 11 Senate seat in Sioux Falls. The race currently features three candidates vying for the single available seat in the district.
Why it matters
The outcome of this race could influence local family support systems, as Matson has identified state-supported childcare assistance and the removal of state sales tax on food as key legislative priorities. Voters will determine the district's representation on these affordability issues in just under two weeks.
There are three candidates running for the single District 11 Senate seat, which covers parts of Sioux Falls. Candidates were evaluated based on their responses to five distinct platform questions.
The players
Aaron Matson
A candidate for the South Dakota District 11 Senate seat who prioritizes state-supported childcare and tax relief.
Chris Karr
A fellow candidate also competing for the District 11 Senate seat in the upcoming election.
The details
Aaron Matson is running for the Senate seat with a focus on affordability and public service. His legislative priorities specifically include advocating for state-supported childcare assistance and eliminating state sales tax on food. Additionally, Matson supports legislation that would grant local governments more authority regarding the placement and management of hyperscale data centers.
Timeline
November 3, 2026, is the scheduled election day for the District 11 Senate seat.
The Home Front
Legislative proposals regarding the state sales tax on food directly influence household grocery budgets across the region. These policy platforms reflect broader trends in South Dakota aimed at addressing affordability and the cost of living for families.
Residents of District 11 should review the platforms of all three candidates before casting their ballots on November 3, 2026. Understanding how each candidate proposes to handle childcare funding and tax adjustments can help families plan for upcoming household budget changes.
The takeaway
Voters have the opportunity to influence state-level affordability policies affecting childcare and food costs in the upcoming election. Ensure you are registered to vote and review candidate information before heading to the polls on November 3.
Further reading
Learn more about local family initiatives in the Child Care section.
Live Poll
Do you support state-funded financial assistance to help families pay for childcare?
