Tamara Grove

Tamara Grove is a prominent American politician serving as a Republican member of the South Dakota State Senate, representing the 26th district since 2025. She is notable for being the first African American woman elected to the South Dakota Senate, marking a significant milestone in the state's legislative history. The 26th district encompasses several counties in south-central South Dakota, including Brule, Buffalo, Hughes, Hyde, Jones, Lyman, Mellette, and Todd Counties. Grove's legislative career is characterized by her advocacy for drug reform, education, and Native American issues.

Early life and career

Tamara Grove was born on June 1, 1970, and was adopted as an infant during the Indian Adoption Project. She grew up in Miller, South Dakota, where she was raised in a community that shaped her early values and perspectives. Grove's upbringing in South Dakota provided her with a deep understanding of the local culture and the challenges faced by its residents.

Before entering politics, Grove had a diverse career that included significant involvement in research and community service. She spent time as a researcher for the First Step Act, a federal law aimed at reforming the criminal justice system, particularly in relation to sentencing and rehabilitation. This role came after the 2016 United States presidential election, during which she worked closely with President Donald Trump’s Urban Revitalization Coalition. Grove was instrumental in developing the 13-Point Urban Revitalization Plan, which aimed to address urban issues across the nation.

In addition to her work at the national level, Grove has been actively engaged in her local community. She and her husband have lived in Sioux Falls for three decades before relocating to Lower Brule. Together, they have collaborated with community members on various initiatives, focusing on drug and alcohol recovery, children's educational programs, and food sovereignty. Their commitment to improving the health and wellness of Native people is evident through their involvement with the Lower Brule Health and Wellness Board, which aims to enhance health outcomes for the local population and beyond.

Legislative service

Tamara Grove's entry into the South Dakota State Senate began with her candidacy for the 26th legislative district in 2024. She successfully ran against the incumbent Democratic Senator Shawn Bordeaux, achieving a notable victory on Election Night with a margin of 57% to 43%. This win was significant not only for Grove personally but also for the Republican Party, as she became the first Republican to represent the 26th district in nearly two decades.

Since taking office in 2025, Grove has focused on various legislative initiatives that reflect her commitment to her constituents and her advocacy for social issues. One of her early legislative actions was to introduce a resolution calling for the rescission of the Dakota Removal Act, a historical law that has had lasting implications for the Dakota/Lakota people in Minnesota. This resolution underscores her dedication to addressing historical injustices faced by Native American communities.

In addition to her work on historical issues, Grove has also prioritized education in her legislative agenda. She introduced a bill aimed at requiring the teaching of Native history in South Dakota schools. This initiative aligns with her broader goals of fostering understanding and reconciliation between Native communities and the state government. Grove's legislative efforts reflect her commitment to addressing both contemporary issues and historical grievances, aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the South Dakota State Senate, Tamara Grove has established a clear policy focus that encompasses drug reform, education, and the rights of Native Americans. Her advocacy for drug reform is particularly noteworthy, as she has worked to change laws that have historically penalized individuals with substance use disorders. In her first legislative session, she sought to end the state's outdated ingestion law, which classified first-time offenses as felonies. This initiative highlights her commitment to rehabilitation and support for those affected by substance use.

Grove's engagement with community issues extends beyond drug reform. Her work with local organizations and boards, such as the Lower Brule Health and Wellness Board, demonstrates her dedication to improving the health and well-being of her constituents. By collaborating with community members on various initiatives, she aims to address pressing local challenges and enhance the quality of life for residents in her district.

The 26th district, which Grove represents, includes a diverse population spread across several counties. This demographic diversity influences her legislative priorities and the issues she chooses to champion. By focusing on education, particularly the inclusion of Native history in school curricula, Grove aims to foster a greater understanding of the cultural heritage and contributions of Native Americans in South Dakota. This focus on education is part of her broader strategy to promote social equity and address historical injustices.

In summary, Tamara Grove's legislative career is marked by her commitment to social reform, community engagement, and advocacy for marginalized groups. As she continues to serve in the South Dakota State Senate, her efforts reflect a dedication to addressing both contemporary issues and historical grievances, aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all South Dakotans.