Sioux Falls Mayoral Race Decided by Just Two Votes, Recount Looms

WHO:

CBS News - Christine Erickson, candidate for mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

CBS News - Jamie Smith, candidate for mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and current state senator.

Fox News - Both candidates have expressed commitment to ensuring a fair election.

WHAT:

CBS News - The mayoral race in Sioux Falls is separated by just two votes.

CBS News - Erickson received 18,280 votes, while Smith received 18,278 votes.

Fox News - More than 36,000 ballots were cast in the election.

CBS News - A recount is likely after the city canvasses the votes and certifies the results.

CBS News - Either candidate can petition for a recount if the vote difference is less than 2%.

WHERE:

CBS News - Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the largest city in the state.

WHEN:

CBS News - The recount process will begin after the certification of the results.

WHY:

CBS News - Both candidates campaigned on public safety and economic development, indicating a focus on these issues in their platforms.

HOW:

CBS News - Candidates are committed to "accuracy and transparency" in the recount process.

CBS News - Smith emphasized the importance of participation in elections, stating, "this is an example to everybody in the country that a lot of times people... think that their vote just doesn't matter."

(UPDATED June 25, 2026 21:31 UTC)

In a closely contested mayoral race in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Christine Erickson leads Jamie Smith by just two votes, with Erickson receiving 18,280 votes to Smith's 18,278. Both candidates have expressed their commitment to ensuring a fair election, and a recount is likely after the city certifies the results, as either candidate can petition for one if the vote difference remains under 2%. Smith highlighted the importance of voter participation, stating that this close race serves as a reminder that every vote truly counts.