South Dakota Democrat Exits Race, Clears Independent Path
August 5, 2026·about 1 hour ago·via The New York Times

Julian Beaudion withdrew from South Dakota's Senate race, clearing the field for an independent candidate to compete without a Democratic challenger splitting the anti-Republican vote. Beaudion's decision reflects strategic calculations about electability and the viability of Democratic candidates in deep red South Dakota. The move demonstrates how Democrats sometimes recognize their limitations in certain states and step aside to maximize chances of defeating Republican incumbents. Read more about this...