The fundamental principles of the South Dakota Republican Party are rooted in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of South Dakota. The Party supports the preservation of our Constitutional Republic, its ideals, and its institutions for the good of all Americans.
We believe the strength of our nation derives from an adherence to Judeo-Christian values. We support our nation’s heritage of religious freedom, freedom of speech, and personal responsibility. Republicans recognize we must be proactive in defending freedom at every level.
We believe in equal rights and equal justice for all.
We recognize the free enterprise system and the work ethic of our people as the foundation of our economic success and security. The proper role of government is to provide for the people those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations. The most effective and responsible government is government closest to the people. The Republican Party’s members, leaders, and elected officials are responsible to be cognizant of and responsive to this Republican Platform and the fundamental principles of the Constitution of South Dakota and the United States of America.
We believe South Dakota is an exceptional place to live, raise a family, and pursue economic opportunity.
History of the Republican Party
In addition to supporting an anti-slavery platform, the Republican Party followed a platform based on economic modernization, a more open interpretation of the constitution, expanded banking, openness to new immigrants, and giving free western land to farmers as a way to discourage the spread of slavery to the Western territories.
1854
1857
In a case of (Dred) Scott vs. Sandford, the court ruled that slaves aren’t citizens, they are property. The seven justices, voting in favor were Democrats, the two, who dissented were Republicans.
Republican president Abraham Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation. Republicans elect their first Hispanic Governor, Romualdo Pacheco, of California.
Republicans pass the 13th Amendment, that permanently abolishes slavery.
Republicans pass the 14th Amendment, giving blacks citizenship. It was opposed by the Democrats. Republicans pass the 15th Amendment, giving blacks the right to vote. No Democrat supported it.
Republican president Ulysses S Grant dismantles the Ku Klux Klan (KKK).
Republicans elect the first African American senators and representatives.
Republican senator Aaron Sargent introduces the 19th Amendment, to give women the right to vote. The Democrat controlled Congress voted it out.
1919
Republican Congress passes the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women the right to vote.
Republican Octaviano Larrazolo becomes the first Mexican American Senator. Republican Charles Curtis becomes the first Native American Vice President.
Republican lawmakers outlawed segregation in public school, opposed by state Democrats. Republican president Eisenhower sent in federal troops to enforce the law.
First Republican Asian Senator, Hiram Fong is elected.