We are a group of people with a diversity of lived experiences and beliefs who are collectively committed to ensuring that our local and state government provide accountability, transparency, participation, and Inclusion for all.We are Democrats.
Mission
The South Dakota Democratic Party (SDDP) works for a South Dakota where there is opportunity and progress for everyone – a place where all South Dakotans are treated with dignity and have a chance to go as far as their talents and ambitions will take them. To make this vision a reality, Yankton County Democrats collaborate with the 65 other county parties throughout the state under the shared umbrella of the South Dakota Democratic Party. Together, we engage, empower, organize, and elect Democrats at every level in every corner of our state.
For more information about the South Dakota Democratic Party, please visit their website.
Executive Officers
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Sarah Mechtenberg, Chair
A graduate of Yankton High School, Sarah became an active member of Yankton County Democrats when she moved back to Yankton in 2019 and experienced the ways in which public policy affected her life as a woman, a mom, and the spouse of an immigrant. She has served as Chair of Yankton County Democrats since 2021.
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Ryan Cwach, Vice Chair
From a farm kid to a lawyer to a state representative, Ryan’s South Dakota values are rooted in family, community, and hard work. As a representative for District 18 between 2018 - 2022, Ryan was the only legislator to propose legislation to lower healthcare costs, provide incentives for more affordable daycare, and offer creative solutions to address our long term care system for the aging population.
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Dennis Menke, Treasurer
A life-long resident of Yankton, Dennis has been a member of Yankton County Democrats since 1970 (he served as chair from 1993 - 2001). Now retired from owning and operating one of Yankton’s oldest businesses (Boston Shoes to Boots), Dennis and his wife Ann remain active members of the community. They are the parents of four children and five grandchildren.
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Andrea Stanosheck, Secretary
Born and raised in South Dakota, Andrea has worked as an educator for over 10 years. She became active with the Yankton County Democrats during the 2022 school board election. She is excited to serve as the secretary of the Yankton County Democrats.