Pierre, SD — December 10, 2025 — The South Dakota Republican Party (SDGOP) is proud to announce the successful completion of Phase 2 of the Republican National Committee’s GROW Program, known as the Leaders’ Circle. With this milestone, South Dakota continues to demonstrate strong organizational readiness heading into the 2026 election cycle.
The GROW Program—Growing Republican Organizations to Win—is the RNC’s flagship initiative designed to strengthen state parties through best-practice development, data excellence, strategic planning, and enhanced volunteer deployment. Completion of Phase 2 marks SDGOP’s achievement of rigorous national benchmarks in areas such as voter engagement, fundraising systems, candidate support structures, and grassroots organization.
“South Dakota is leading the way once again,” said Jim Eschenbaum, Chair of the South Dakota Republican Party. “Our team has worked tirelessly to meet every requirement of the GROW Program. Completing Phase 2 positions us to be more effective, more organized, and more responsive to voters than ever before.”
Phase 2 required the submission of detailed organizational data, updated operational plans, and evidence of measurable progress. With the SDGOP’s December 15 submission now approved, the party moves into the next phase with renewed momentum.
“We are building a stronger, smarter Republican Party in South Dakota,” Eschenbaum added. “The GROW Program gives us the tools, and our grassroots network provides the energy. Together, we are ensuring that South Dakota remains a stronghold for conservative values.”
The SDGOP will continue working closely with the Republican National Committee as it advances into subsequent stages of the program. These efforts will directly support election integrity, candidate recruitment, voter turnout operations, training initiatives, and data-driven campaign strategy heading into 2026.
For more information about the GROW Program or the South Dakota Republican Party’s efforts, please contact:
Starla Russell
Secretary
South Dakota Republican Party
[email protected]
