Bruce Whalen was the Republican Candidate for South Dakotas seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Bruce was a supportive husband to Carol, his wife of 6 years, and father to Kyle, Jeremiah, and Elizabeth. He stands strong for South Dakota�s unique family values and was an member of Gospel Fellowship Church in his home town of Pine Ridge.
Bruce was the coordinator of the Oglala Sioux Tribes Judiciary Committee, committed to improving the justice system on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. He was instrumental in the initial formation of the reservation�s first Department of Justice, pending the approval of the tribal council.
Bruce served in the Army National guard for nearly ten years. He worked as a Combat Systems Operator, Field Artillery Surveyor, and Combat Signaler. He was presented with numerous awards during his service and received an Honorable Discharge from the Department of Defense.
Bruce established the first organized Republican Party in Shannon County, and is its first Chairman. He also served as the Native American Outreach Coordinator for the South Dakota Republican Party during the 2004 election cycle. Through his leadership the Native American support of Republican Candidates increased nearly 10 percent. He also served on the party�s platform committee and helped to revise the Republican Vision for South Dakota.
Bruce previously served as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor for the Oglala Sioux Tribe and reservation based Christian Ministries. During this time he was also a gang prevention coordinator for the local boys and girls club.
Bruce graduated from Oglala Lakota College with a Bachelors Degree in Human Services. He was awarded the Caroline M. Reyer award for earning the highest GPA and his service to the student body. Bruce focused on chemical dependency counseling throughout his education.
Bruces diverse educational and professional background is evident through his leadership and service to this great state. He is humble, grounded, and a man of the people. Bruce will be a true reflection of South Dakota�s culture in Washington.
Bruce on the Campaign Trail/Blog
