Letter: Support for Zikmund, participating in elections

My name is Michele Klimek, I grew up in Eastern South Dakota and have lived in Sioux Falls for over ten years. During those years I have had the opportunity to vote in a variety of elections. Come this November, South Dakotans will have the chance to vote again and if you’ve reviewed a sample ballot you know there are many folks running for office. I encourage all South Dakota registered voters to go to the polls on Nov. 8, and I highly recommend Sioux Falls District 14 voters to cast their vote for Larry Zikmund for South Dakota Senate. 

In my opinion, Sen. Zikmund has represented District 14 very well for many years. Would you guess we have had a disagreement about a bill or a current event? We certainly have.

I’ve never hesitated to share my concerns, thoughts and opinions with Sen. Zikmund. He has always returned my phone calls or replied to my emails even if I may have been a little more emotional than need be. He meets me where I am. He listens and responds with patience. 

Do you wonder if your voice matters to your legislator? I don’t. I know my voice is represented responsibly in Pierre. Sen. Zikmund is interested in hearing from constituents. He respects our insights and viewpoints. As a homeschool family, I believe that our knowledge and experience was significant for Sen. Zikmund when he showed support for the 2021 Homeschool Bill (Senate Bill 177).  

In conclusion, I want to stress that reaching out to your legislator is important and can be very helpful to them. Please take the time to vote for the candidates of your choice. If you are a District 14 voter join me in voting to re-elect Larry Zikmund as our Senator. He is respectful, resourceful and reverent. He knows there is a middle ground and on several occasions his wisdom has guided me to meet him there.  

Michele Klimek
Sioux Falls