KELOLAND News reported that Senator Rounds’ campaign declined its invitation to debate independent challenger Brian Bengs. In response, the network announced it will pivot its scheduled program to feature alternative race coverage and answer viewer-submitted questions.
The move mirrors strategy from Rounds’ previous reelection bid in 2020, when he similarly declined KELOLAND News debate invitations during his campaign against Democratic challenger Dan Ahlers.
A separate debate co-hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) and South Dakota News Watch remains scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Central time on September 14, 2026, in Sioux Falls. While Senator Rounds has not accepted the invitation to participate, organizers confirmed that Bengs will still receive broadcast airtime during the scheduled event.
Race at a Glance
- The Matchup: Two-term incumbent Republican Sen. Mike Rounds vs. Independent challenger Brian Bengs.
- KELOLAND News Coverage: Declined by Rounds; station moving forward with alternative candidate profiling and viewer QA.
- SDPB / News Watch Event: Scheduled for Sept. 14 at 8:00 p.m. CT in Sioux Falls; airtime guaranteed for Bengs regardless of Rounds’ absence.
