FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 30, 2025

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Secures Additional Funds to Keep Mount Rushmore Lights On Amidst Shutdown

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced he secured additional funding to keep Mount Rushmore National Memorial illuminated amidst the ongoing government shutdown.

“Mount Rushmore is a beacon of freedom for our state, nation, and the world. Our Founding Fathers pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to defend American freedom and independence – the least we can do is shine a light on that freedom by keeping our great Memorial lit,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “I am grateful for the South Dakotans who have stepped up to financially support these efforts. Now, Senate Democrats need to get their act together and reopen the federal government.”

Governor Rhoden previously announced that he and other state leaders began personally funding the evening lights at Mount Rushmore, including a week-long sponsorship by Governor Rhoden. As the shutdown continues to progress, the following individuals have pledged to cover additional days of illumination:

• Oct. 30 and 31: Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen;
• Nov. 1: First Lady Sandy Rhoden;
• Nov. 2: Former Senate Majority Leader Gary Cammack;
• Nov. 3: Representative Terri Jorgenson;
• Nov. 4: Attorney General Marty Jackley;
• Nov. 5: Secretary of State Monae Johnson;
• Nov. 6: State Auditor Rich Sattgast;
• Nov. 7: State Treasurer Josh Haeder;
• Nov. 8: School and Public Lands Commissioner Brock Greenfield;
• Nov. 9: Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson;
• Nov. 10: Public Utilities Commissioner Kristie Fiegen;
• Nov. 11: Public Utilities Commissioner Gary Hanson;
• Nov. 12: Senator Ernie Otten;
• Nov. 13: Senator Amber Hulse;
• Nov. 14: Representative Liz May; and
• Nov. 15: Representative Tina Mulally.

Governor Rhoden received many other pledges to support shining the lights should the shutdown continue longer.

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