Parsley to Run for District 8 Senate

Posted on Thursday, February 14, 2008

District 8 could have at least one new representative next year. That's because Senator Dan Sutton of Flandreau's term is limited in the senate,. Sutton could decide to seek a seat in the house.

Democratic Senate Leader Scott Heidepriem announced yesterday that Scott Parsley of Madison will seek the seat. Parsley, who serves as assistant general manager at East River Electric Power Cooperative, has 22 years experience with cooperatives and rural development. He and his wife Val, who have three children, have lived in Madison for 26 years.

Parsley says he's concerned about education, and would like to see increased state support for public schools and Dakota State University, as well as lower pressure on property taxes.

Parsley is currently circulating petitions. He would first need to win the democratic primary June the third, before running in the general election on November 4th.

Former District 8 representative Gerry Lange is circulating a petition for another run at the House.

Current District 8 House members Dave Gassman and Russ Olsen are both eligible for another term in the House.