Gov. Rhoden Personally Funds Lights at Mount Rushmore Amidst Shutdown


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 11, 2025

Contact: Josie Harms

 

Gov. Rhoden Personally Funds Lights at Mount Rushmore Amidst Shutdown

 

PIERRE, S.D. –  Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced he personally donated funds to illuminate the faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial after the government shutdown forced the Memorial’s lights to go dark.

 

“Mount Rushmore is a symbol of freedom – and I refuse to let its light dim! Even when Washington shuts down, American freedom will keep shining bright right here in South Dakota,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “Thank you to the Mount Rushmore Society and the National Park Service for working with us to bring this vision to life. I am proud that the faces of our great Presidents will continue to shine bright and serve as a beacon of freedom!”

 

Governor Rhoden’s funds will illuminate the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln for the next week. The following individuals have pledged to cover additional days if the government shutdown continues to progress:

 

  • Days 8-10: Marilyn Oakes, in memory of her late husband Arthur Oakes;
  • Day 11: Representative Mike Derby;
  • Day 12: Majority Leader Scott Odenbach;
  • Day 13: Senator Helene Duhamel;
  • Day 14: Representative Steve Duffy;
  • Day 15: Senator Randy Deibert;
  • Day 16: Representative Mary Fitzgerald;
  • Day 17: Representative Tim Goodwin;
  • Day 18: Representative Trish Ladner; and
  • Day 19: Representative Curt Massie.

 

Governor Rhoden received many other pledges to support shining the lights if the shutdown continues longer.

 

The Mount Rushmore Society facilitated the transfer of funds through its partnership with the National Park Service as the Memorial’s official nonprofit partner. For nearly a century, the Mount Rushmore Society has been dedicated to preserving and promoting the Memorial and all it symbolizes to our Nation.

 

“This collaboration reflects the enduring commitment of individuals and communities who care deeply about preserving and promoting this national treasure,” said Diana Nielsen, CEO of the Mount Rushmore Society.

 

You can find more information about the Mount Rushmore Society here.

 

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