Soaring Higher

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Soaring Higher

By: Gov. Larry Rhoden

July 17, 2026

America 250 is a great time to reflect on who we are and what we have fought to build and keep for so long. We are an example for freedom to the rest of the world, and a symbol of hope, as well. But we have our own symbols that represent who we are.

Our Founding Fathers believed in the power of symbols - like our flag and our Declaration of Independence. Another symbol is our national bird: the American Bald Eagle. This powerful symbol was chosen as the center for our national seal almost as long ago as our Independence was claimed, but not officially adopted until more recently.

For the Lakota and Dakota, an Eagle feather carries prayers, honor, and the reminder to live in a good way, known as Wolakota, with respect for the Creator, the people, and all living beings. Throughout South Dakota, you can see how this belief continues to guide families and communities. Every feather reflects a story of connection, responsibility, and the values passed down from one generation to the next. These values are why South Dakotans are stronger and more resilient than people in many other states.

Eagles are naturally strong fliers, but they prefer to soar - with slow but powerful wing beats to expend less energy to go further than other birds. Eagles are larger than almost any other bird they may come in contact with, so they are not averse to attacks.

One of the birds shameless enough to fight an eagle is the crow. They will land directly on an eagle's back and peck and claw to assert their dominance. The eagle could respond with its superior strength and mighty talons, but it doesn't. Instead, it chooses not to waste its energy on the invitation for battle. The eagle rises higher in elevation, completely ignoring the frazzled foe on its back. And the higher the eagle flies, the harder the crow will find it is to breathe. Eventually, the crow falls away due to lack of oxygen. And the eagle is free.

This fact about eagles reminds me that freedom isn't built in short order, and it is not without turns, twists, and even some backtracking. I have had to learn from the eagle not to fight those that are trying to steal my peace or suggesting we turn our free state upside to fix a problem that can be addressed with a more targeted solution. As Governor, I've made an effort to remain disciplined and focused on what is important.

Our newest revenue reports show that South Dakota's robust economy is driving steady revenue growth, moving our budget in an even stronger direction. We have worked steadily and with discipline to keep our taxes very low and ensure we have the highest return on each dollar invested. We're setting an example for the nation of good stewardship of taxpayer dollars by doing things the right way, the South Dakota way.

Every year, South Dakota receives the highest credit rating and celebrates a balanced budget - and that's not because of one decision or one person. We have risen to be a national example because of a tradition of sound decisions, respectful debate, and core values.

We do a lot of things right in South Dakota, and for as long as I am Governor, we'll stay focused on soaring even higher.

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