HURON – Four-term state representative Peggy Gibson of Huron has been a star activist since her first, unsuccessful run for the state Senate in 2006, people who nominated her for the McGovern Grassroots Award said.
Gibson, who was term limited and now serves as chair of the Beadle County Democratic Party, was presented with the award at the annual McGovern Day festivities Saturday.
For years, Gibson has encouraged local Democrats to become more involved in the party and in government. Many current and former party officers took up the call.
“If you were really curious about what was going on in the state, there was one source better than anyone and that source was Rep. Peggy Gibson,” said Harvey and Anne Wollman.
They said they believe she still has a political future if she so chooses.
“Peggy Gibson has been fearless in standing up for the citizens of South Dakota,” said Joanne Groves, Beadle County Democratic state committeewoman and former chair of the Huron School Board.
“A primary focus for her has been those who are unable to speak for themselves – children, battered women, the elderly and those less fortunate,” Groves said.
“Her attention to understanding the issues has consistently gone beyond the norm,” she said.
Groves also said from the beginning of her service Gibson has championed changing the system of gerrymandering so that voters choose their representatives versus representatives choosing their voters, and the need for an independent ethics commission.
“Peggy Gibson personifies empathy, intelligence and integrity,” said John Schmidt of Woonsocket.
“She listened with courage regarding the Arctic methane release,” he said. “She is a leader to be honored for her years of selfless sacrifice.”
Darlene Kutzler said Gibson revitalized the Democratic Party in Beadle County with outstanding accomplishments during her multiple terms in the state Legislature.
“She listened to her constituents and drafted legislation that would solve problems in her district,” she said.
As a constituent, Roberta Hintz said she has been impressed by Gibson’s ability to clarify complex issues.
“Her dedication to ethics and justice mirrors the values held by George McGovern,” she said.
Eric Bliss said Gibson has been an inspirational and encouraging force in the political life of District 22.
“A powerful and dynamic presence is felt from the moment she enters a room, yet the embrace with which she greets each person leaves one feeling personally valued,” he said.
“Her positions on issues are based on what is best for real people, and in the face of sometimes fierce opposition those ideals keep coming forth with persistence,” Bliss said.
