{"id":165,"name":"JUSTIN MCNEAL","first_name":"JUSTIN","last_name":"MCNEAL","middle_name":"S","suffix":null,"bioguide_id":null,"fec_candidate_id":"S6SD01133","ocd_person_id":null,"govtrack_id":null,"opensecrets_id":null,"votesmart_id":null,"office_id":1,"party":"REPUBLICAN PARTY","status":"candidate","photo_url":null,"website":null,"campaign_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM","email":null,"phone":null,"social_twitter":"justin_mcn50093","social_facebook":"https://facebook.com/justinmcneal4senate","social_instagram":"justinmcneal_ussenate","social_youtube":null,"state":"SD","district":"00","city":null,"assumed_office":null,"term_end":null,"born":null,"source":"fec","source_url":"https://api.open.fec.gov/v1/candidate/S6SD01133/","source_updated":"2026-06-19 08:00:45","first_seen":"2026-05-09 07:51:37","last_seen":"2026-06-19 11:24:36","created_at":"2026-05-09 07:51:37","updated_at":"2026-06-19 11:24:36","canonical_id":null,"fec_checked_at":null,"office_name":"U.S. Senator","level":"federal","branch":"legislative","office_chamber":"senate","positions":[{"topic":"Taxes","stance":"Fiscal Responsibility & Smarter Government","detail":"South Dakotans know how to balance a checkbook. Washington should, too. Justin brings real-world financial discipline to government. He holds an MBA , is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) , and has owned and operated a wealth management firm for more than 18 years , working directly with hundreds of families to help them budget responsibly, plan for the future, and protect what they’ve earned. Justin believes the government should operate with the same accountability and discipline required in the private sector , not with blank checks and borrowed money. In Congress, he will work to: Reduce wasteful spending Streamline bloated federal programs Increase transparency and independent oversight Protect taxpayers from runaway debt and inflation Government exists to serve the people , not to grow itself at their expense. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-23"},{"topic":"Economy","stance":"Education, Innovation & America’s Future Workforce","detail":"America’s future depends on skills—not slogans. As a nuclear engineer and business professional, Justin believes education should prepare students for real opportunities, not federal bureaucracy. He supports: Strong STEM education and workforce pathways Local control over schools and curricula Career and technical education that leads to good-paying jobs Reducing unfunded federal mandates on teachers and schools South Dakota succeeds when young people can build their futures here—without being forced to leave home to find opportunity. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-23"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Veterans & Military Families","detail":"Justin McNeal Veteran who understands VA delays, transition challenges, and mental health needs Supports real VA accountability and faster access to care Focuses on rural veteran access, not just promises Mike Rounds Supports veteran legislation but operates within the existing VA structure Oversight has produced limited improvements in wait times and accountability Focuses on funding more than reform The Difference: Justin is familiar with the system from the inside. Rounds oversees it from the outside.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-23"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Veterans & Military Families","detail":"Justin McNeal Veteran who understands VA delays, transition challenges, and mental health needs Supports real VA accountability and faster access to care Focuses on rural veteran access, not just promises Mike Rounds Supports veteran legislation but operates within the existing VA structure Oversight has produced limited improvements in wait times and accountability Focuses on funding more than reform The Difference: Justin is familiar with the system from the inside. Rounds oversees it from the outside.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-23"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Protecting America Through Strength — Not Endless War","detail":"As a U.S. Navy veteran who served aboard a fast-attack nuclear submarine during the post-9/11 era, Justin McNeal understands that strength is not measured by how often we go to war, but by how seriously we treat the lives we send into harm’s way. America must remain strong, prepared, and capable of defending itself against real threats. But strength also means discipline, restraint, and clear objectives. Justin opposes reckless foreign entanglements and political adventurism that drains resources, destabilizes regions, and places unnecessary burdens on American service members and their families. Peace is preserved when America is respected, prepared, and led by people who understand the cost of war, not those who treat it as a talking point. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Protecting America Through Strength — Not Endless War","detail":"As a U.S. Navy veteran who served aboard a fast-attack nuclear submarine during the post-9/11 era, Justin McNeal understands that strength is not measured by how often we go to war, but by how seriously we treat the lives we send into harm’s way. America must remain strong, prepared, and capable of defending itself against real threats. But strength also means discipline, restraint, and clear objectives. Justin opposes reckless foreign entanglements and political adventurism that drains resources, destabilizes regions, and places unnecessary burdens on American service members and their families. Peace is preserved when America is respected, prepared, and led by people who understand the cost of war, not those who treat it as a talking point. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Gun Control","stance":"Defending Constitutional Rights & American Values","detail":"Patriotism means more than flying a flag—it means protecting the freedoms that flag represents . Justin McNeal is dedicated to upholding the Constitution and the rights it guarantees, including freedom of speech, religious liberty, the Second Amendment, and due process. These rights are not outdated ideals; they are the foundation of a free and self-governing people. Justin will oppose federal overreach that undermines individual liberty, local control, and states’ rights. Washington should not dictate how South Dakotans live, worship, speak, or protect their families. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Standing Up for South Dakota’s Way of Life","detail":"South Dakota is not Washington, D.C. — and it should never be governed like it. Justin’s family has called South Dakota home for generations. With multiple generations of veterans laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery , his connection to this state is personal, not political . Justin doesn’t just talk about rural values — he lives them . He is the founder and owner of Dakota BioChar , a South Dakota–based agricultural and land-stewardship business that removes hazardous waste wood from the Black Hills National Forest and repurposes it into BioChar , a soil amendment used to restore and heal unproductive farmland across South Dakota . This work supports forest health, wildfire risk reduction, and long-term agricultural productivity — without expanding federal bureaucracy. Learn more at: www.dakota-BioChar.com Justin will fight to: Protect private property and landowner rights Defend farmers and ranchers from burdensome federal regulations Preserve rural communities and local decision-making Keep Washington bureaucrats out of South Dakota’s daily life South Dakotans know what works here. Justin believes the federal government should listen more, respect local knowledge, and interfere less . ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Standing Up for South Dakota’s Way of Life","detail":"South Dakota is not Washington, D.C. — and it should never be governed like it. Justin’s family has called South Dakota home for generations. With multiple generations of veterans laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery , his connection to this state is personal, not political . Justin doesn’t just talk about rural values — he lives them . He is the founder and owner of Dakota BioChar , a South Dakota–based agricultural and land-stewardship business that removes hazardous waste wood from the Black Hills National Forest and repurposes it into BioChar , a soil amendment used to restore and heal unproductive farmland across South Dakota . This work supports forest health, wildfire risk reduction, and long-term agricultural productivity — without expanding federal bureaucracy. Learn more at: www.dakota-BioChar.com Justin will fight to: Protect private property and landowner rights Defend farmers and ranchers from burdensome federal regulations Preserve rural communities and local decision-making Keep Washington bureaucrats out of South Dakota’s daily life South Dakotans know what works here. Justin believes the federal government should listen more, respect local knowledge, and interfere less . ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Agriculture","stance":"Standing Up for South Dakota’s Way of Life","detail":"South Dakota is not Washington, D.C. — and it should never be governed like it. Justin’s family has called South Dakota home for generations. With multiple generations of veterans laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery , his connection to this state is personal, not political . Justin doesn’t just talk about rural values — he lives them . He is the founder and owner of Dakota BioChar , a South Dakota–based agricultural and land-stewardship business that removes hazardous waste wood from the Black Hills National Forest and repurposes it into BioChar , a soil amendment used to restore and heal unproductive farmland across South Dakota . This work supports forest health, wildfire risk reduction, and long-term agricultural productivity — without expanding federal bureaucracy. Learn more at: www.dakota-BioChar.com Justin will fight to: Protect private property and landowner rights Defend farmers and ranchers from burdensome federal regulations Preserve rural communities and local decision-making Keep Washington bureaucrats out of South Dakota’s daily life South Dakotans know what works here. Justin believes the federal government should listen more, respect local knowledge, and interfere less . ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Healthcare","stance":"Honoring Veterans & Supporting Military Families","detail":"Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Justin brings firsthand experience of the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life-long wait times, confusing systems, and bureaucratic delays that leave too many veterans frustrated and underserved. Justin will fight to: Improve VA access and accountability Expand mental health care, especially in rural areas Strengthen transition and job-training programs Cut red tape that delays care and benefits Veterans deserve timely care, clear answers, and respect—not excuses. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Taxes","stance":"Honoring Veterans & Supporting Military Families","detail":"Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Justin brings firsthand experience of the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life-long wait times, confusing systems, and bureaucratic delays that leave too many veterans frustrated and underserved. Justin will fight to: Improve VA access and accountability Expand mental health care, especially in rural areas Strengthen transition and job-training programs Cut red tape that delays care and benefits Veterans deserve timely care, clear answers, and respect—not excuses. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Honoring Veterans & Supporting Military Families","detail":"Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Justin brings firsthand experience of the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life-long wait times, confusing systems, and bureaucratic delays that leave too many veterans frustrated and underserved. Justin will fight to: Improve VA access and accountability Expand mental health care, especially in rural areas Strengthen transition and job-training programs Cut red tape that delays care and benefits Veterans deserve timely care, clear answers, and respect—not excuses. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Honoring Veterans & Supporting Military Families","detail":"Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Justin brings firsthand experience of the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life-long wait times, confusing systems, and bureaucratic delays that leave too many veterans frustrated and underserved. Justin will fight to: Improve VA access and accountability Expand mental health care, especially in rural areas Strengthen transition and job-training programs Cut red tape that delays care and benefits Veterans deserve timely care, clear answers, and respect—not excuses. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Agriculture","stance":"Honoring Veterans & Supporting Military Families","detail":"Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Justin brings firsthand experience of the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life-long wait times, confusing systems, and bureaucratic delays that leave too many veterans frustrated and underserved. Justin will fight to: Improve VA access and accountability Expand mental health care, especially in rural areas Strengthen transition and job-training programs Cut red tape that delays care and benefits Veterans deserve timely care, clear answers, and respect—not excuses. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Economy","stance":"Energy Independence & American Strength","detail":"Energy security is national security. With a degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology and real-world experience in nuclear systems, Justin understands America’s energy challenges and opportunities from the inside out. He supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that: Expands domestic energy production Invests in next-generation nuclear technology Strengthens grid reliability and affordability Reduces dependence on foreign adversaries South Dakota plays a critical role in America’s energy future. Justin will work to ensure energy policy lowers costs for families, supports local jobs, and keeps decisions rooted in science—not ideology. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Energy Independence & American Strength","detail":"Energy security is national security. With a degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology and real-world experience in nuclear systems, Justin understands America’s energy challenges and opportunities from the inside out. He supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that: Expands domestic energy production Invests in next-generation nuclear technology Strengthens grid reliability and affordability Reduces dependence on foreign adversaries South Dakota plays a critical role in America’s energy future. Justin will work to ensure energy policy lowers costs for families, supports local jobs, and keeps decisions rooted in science—not ideology. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Energy Independence & American Strength","detail":"Energy security is national security. With a degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology and real-world experience in nuclear systems, Justin understands America’s energy challenges and opportunities from the inside out. He supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that: Expands domestic energy production Invests in next-generation nuclear technology Strengthens grid reliability and affordability Reduces dependence on foreign adversaries South Dakota plays a critical role in America’s energy future. Justin will work to ensure energy policy lowers costs for families, supports local jobs, and keeps decisions rooted in science—not ideology. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Economy","stance":"Fiscal Responsibility & Smarter Government","detail":"South Dakotans know how to balance a checkbook. Washington should, too. Justin brings real-world financial discipline to government. He holds an MBA , is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) , and has owned and operated a wealth management firm for more than 18 years , working directly with hundreds of families to help them budget responsibly, plan for the future, and protect what they’ve earned. Justin believes the government should operate with the same accountability and discipline required in the private sector , not with blank checks and borrowed money. In Congress, he will work to: Reduce wasteful spending Streamline bloated federal programs Increase transparency and independent oversight Protect taxpayers from runaway debt and inflation Government exists to serve the people , not to grow itself at their expense. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Education","stance":"Education, Innovation & America’s Future Workforce","detail":"America’s future depends on skills—not slogans. As a nuclear engineer and business professional, Justin believes education should prepare students for real opportunities, not federal bureaucracy. He supports: Strong STEM education and workforce pathways Local control over schools and curricula Career and technical education that leads to good-paying jobs Reducing unfunded federal mandates on teachers and schools South Dakota succeeds when young people can build their futures here—without being forced to leave home to find opportunity. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Education, Innovation & America’s Future Workforce","detail":"America’s future depends on skills—not slogans. As a nuclear engineer and business professional, Justin believes education should prepare students for real opportunities, not federal bureaucracy. He supports: Strong STEM education and workforce pathways Local control over schools and curricula Career and technical education that leads to good-paying jobs Reducing unfunded federal mandates on teachers and schools South Dakota succeeds when young people can build their futures here—without being forced to leave home to find opportunity. ","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Economy","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Climate","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Education","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Taxes","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Agriculture","stance":"Protecting South Dakota Landowners and Ending the Abuse of Eminent Domain","detail":"South Dakota’s land is more than property: it is heritage, livelihood, and the foundation of our way of life. For generations, South Dakotans have worked, farmed, and built their futures on land they own and steward with care. Today, that fundamental right is under threat from a corrupt system that places corporate interests ahead of the people of South Dakota. Private pipeline companies, enabled by federal subsidies and government favoritism, are attempting to seize private land through eminent domain for projects that provide no meaningful benefit to South Dakota families, farmers, or taxpayers. These projects are driven not by public necessity, but by private profit—made possible through taxpayer-funded incentives like the federal 45Q tax credit. This is wrong. And it must end. The Problem: Corporate Welfare and Government Overreach The federal 45Q tax credit was created to subsidize carbon capture and pipeline projects, allowing private corporations to receive billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded incentives. These subsidies distort the free market and encourage companies to pursue projects that would not otherwise be economically viable. Instead of creating true economic opportunity for South Dakotans, these projects: Threaten private property rights Use eminent domain to seize land for private corporate gain Increase the burden on taxpayers while corporations receive financial rewards Provide little to no economic benefit to the communities they impact Undermine the agricultural foundation of South Dakota’s economy This is not free enterprise. This is corporate welfare. Even worse, these private companies are attempting to use eminent domain—a power intended only for true public necessity—to take land from hardworking South Dakotans for projects that primarily benefit private investors and out-of-state interests. The government should never have the authority to take a citizen’s land for the financial benefit of a private corporation. Justin McNeal’s Plan: Re","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Taxes","stance":"National Defense & Foreign Policy","detail":"Justin McNeal U.S. Navy veteran with firsthand experience of military service after 9/11 Believes in strength, preparedness, and deterrence Opposes endless wars and open-ended foreign conflicts Supports disciplined defense spending focused on real threats–not political agendas Mike Rounds Career politician with no military service Consistently supports large defense budgets with limited accountability Aligns with Washington’s interventionist foreign policy consensus Votes often reflect party leadership priorities rather than restraint The Difference: Justin has lived the cost of war. Rounds has voted on it from Washington.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"National Defense & Foreign Policy","detail":"Justin McNeal U.S. Navy veteran with firsthand experience of military service after 9/11 Believes in strength, preparedness, and deterrence Opposes endless wars and open-ended foreign conflicts Supports disciplined defense spending focused on real threats–not political agendas Mike Rounds Career politician with no military service Consistently supports large defense budgets with limited accountability Aligns with Washington’s interventionist foreign policy consensus Votes often reflect party leadership priorities rather than restraint The Difference: Justin has lived the cost of war. Rounds has voted on it from Washington.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"National Defense & Foreign Policy","detail":"Justin McNeal U.S. Navy veteran with firsthand experience of military service after 9/11 Believes in strength, preparedness, and deterrence Opposes endless wars and open-ended foreign conflicts Supports disciplined defense spending focused on real threats–not political agendas Mike Rounds Career politician with no military service Consistently supports large defense budgets with limited accountability Aligns with Washington’s interventionist foreign policy consensus Votes often reflect party leadership priorities rather than restraint The Difference: Justin has lived the cost of war. Rounds has voted on it from Washington.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Gun Control","stance":"Constitutional Rights & Federal Overreach","detail":"Justin McNeal Strong defender of free speech, religious liberty, due process, and the Second Amendment Opposes federal agencies bypassing Congress or the Constitution Supports states’ rights and local control Mike Rounds Publicly supports constitutional rights but frequently votes with federal expansion Has supported large federal spending bills that increase Washington’s reach Rarely challenges federal agencies or leadership decisions The Difference: Justin will challenge overreach. Rounds manages it.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Agriculture","stance":"South Dakota’s Way of Life","detail":"Justin McNeal Generational South Dakotan with deep family roots Prioritizes rural communities, farmers, ranchers, and landowners Opposes Washington-driven land, water, and regulatory mandates Believes decisions affecting South Dakota should be made in South Dakota Mike Rounds Nearly two decades in Washington and Pierre Increasingly aligned with national party priorities Has supported omnibus bills that impose one-size-fits-all federal rules The Difference: Justin represents South Dakota’s voice. Rounds represent Washington’s system.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Criminal Justice","stance":"Veterans & Military Families","detail":"Justin McNeal Veteran who understands VA delays, transition challenges, and mental health needs Supports real VA accountability and faster access to care Focuses on rural veteran access, not just promises Mike Rounds Supports veteran legislation but operates within the existing VA structure Oversight has produced limited improvements in wait times and accountability Focuses on funding more than reform The Difference: Justin is familiar with the system from the inside. Rounds oversees it from the outside.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Agriculture","stance":"Veterans & Military Families","detail":"Justin McNeal Veteran who understands VA delays, transition challenges, and mental health needs Supports real VA accountability and faster access to care Focuses on rural veteran access, not just promises Mike Rounds Supports veteran legislation but operates within the existing VA structure Oversight has produced limited improvements in wait times and accountability Focuses on funding more than reform The Difference: Justin is familiar with the system from the inside. Rounds oversees it from the outside.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"National Security","stance":"Energy & National Security","detail":"Justin McNeal Nuclear engineering background Supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy Champions next-generation nuclear, grid reliability, and domestic production Opposes energy policies that raise costs and increase foreign dependence Mike Rounds Supports energy independence rhetorically Votes often align with federal regulatory frameworks Has not led on modern nuclear innovation or long-term grid reform The Difference: Justin brings technical expertise. Rounds brings political talking points.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Technology","stance":"Energy & National Security","detail":"Justin McNeal Nuclear engineering background Supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy Champions next-generation nuclear, grid reliability, and domestic production Opposes energy policies that raise costs and increase foreign dependence Mike Rounds Supports energy independence rhetorically Votes often align with federal regulatory frameworks Has not led on modern nuclear innovation or long-term grid reform The Difference: Justin brings technical expertise. Rounds brings political talking points.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Criminal Justice","stance":"Energy & National Security","detail":"Justin McNeal Nuclear engineering background Supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy Champions next-generation nuclear, grid reliability, and domestic production Opposes energy policies that raise costs and increase foreign dependence Mike Rounds Supports energy independence rhetorically Votes often align with federal regulatory frameworks Has not led on modern nuclear innovation or long-term grid reform The Difference: Justin brings technical expertise. Rounds brings political talking points.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Taxes","stance":"Fiscal Responsibility & Government Accountability","detail":"Justin McNeal MBA and engineering mindset Treats taxpayer dollars like family dollars Supports cutting waste, auditing agencies, and enforcing accountability Believes the government should justify every dollar it spends Mike Rounds Career politician during historic federal spending growth Supported multiple large spending packages contributing to the national debt Rarely pushes structural reform The Difference: Justin wants to fix the system. Rounds is comfortable inside it.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Criminal Justice","stance":"Fiscal Responsibility & Government Accountability","detail":"Justin McNeal MBA and engineering mindset Treats taxpayer dollars like family dollars Supports cutting waste, auditing agencies, and enforcing accountability Believes the government should justify every dollar it spends Mike Rounds Career politician during historic federal spending growth Supported multiple large spending packages contributing to the national debt Rarely pushes structural reform The Difference: Justin wants to fix the system. Rounds is comfortable inside it.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Economy","stance":"Education & Workforce Development","detail":"Justin McNeal Focus on STEM, trades, and high-skill career pathways Supports local control over education Opposes federal mandates that burden teachers and schools Wants students prepared for real jobs—not bureaucracy Mike Rounds Supports federal education funding and programs Limited challenge to federal education mandates Emphasis on funding rather than reform The Difference: Justin prepares students for the future. Rounds funds the status quo.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Education","stance":"Education & Workforce Development","detail":"Justin McNeal Focus on STEM, trades, and high-skill career pathways Supports local control over education Opposes federal mandates that burden teachers and schools Wants students prepared for real jobs—not bureaucracy Mike Rounds Supports federal education funding and programs Limited challenge to federal education mandates Emphasis on funding rather than reform The Difference: Justin prepares students for the future. Rounds funds the status quo.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Criminal Justice","stance":"Education & Workforce Development","detail":"Justin McNeal Focus on STEM, trades, and high-skill career pathways Supports local control over education Opposes federal mandates that burden teachers and schools Wants students prepared for real jobs—not bureaucracy Mike Rounds Supports federal education funding and programs Limited challenge to federal education mandates Emphasis on funding rather than reform The Difference: Justin prepares students for the future. Rounds funds the status quo.","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"},{"topic":"Voting Rights","stance":"The Bottom Line","detail":"Mike Rounds represents experience inside Washington. Justin McNeal represents experience serving America and living in South Dakota. This election isn’t about party labels . It’s about accountability vs. complacency , service vs. politics , and the future vs. the status quo .","source_url":"https://WWW.JUSTINMCNEAL.COM/issues","source_date":"2026-05-15"}],"committees":[],"finance":[{"id":154,"official_id":165,"fec_candidate_id":"S6SD01133","cycle":2026,"office_sought":"S","total_raised":7880.13,"total_spent":4046.35,"cash_on_hand":3833.78,"total_debt":51627.75,"individual_contributions":7754.1,"pac_contributions":0,"party_contributions":0,"self_funding":26.03,"last_filing_date":"2026-03-31T00:00:00","source_url":"https://www.fec.gov/data/candidate/S6SD01133/?cycle=2026","updated_at":"2026-06-17 02:29:26"}],"vote_count":0,"vote_summary":[],"vote_topics":[],"recent_votes":[],"ai_visibility":{"official_id":165,"name":"JUSTIN MCNEAL","office":"U.S. Senator","state":"SD","score":61,"grade":"C","max_score":100,"percentile":null,"breakdown":{"profile_completeness":{"score":11,"max":25},"position_depth":{"score":25,"max":25,"positions":44,"topics":11},"vote_record":{"score":0,"max":20,"votes":0},"recency":{"score":15,"max":15},"origin_quality":{"score":10,"max":15}},"what_ai_can_answer":["Their policy positions on multiple issues","Current and up-to-date information","Source-verified, citable positions"],"top_improvements":["Add Photo (+3 pts)","Add Website URL (+5 pts)","Add Email address (+3 pts)","Add Phone number (+3 pts)","Missing voting record — federal officials should have votes"],"claim_url":"https://politics.rootz.global/claim?id=165","_note":"This profile is well-indexed. 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