South Dakota Senate leadership change follows carbon pipeline fight

South Dakota Republicans have selected a new Senate leadership team, with Tim Reed as president pro tempore and Casey Crabtree returning as majority leader. The shift continues a back-and-forth between factions that have clashed over carbon capture pipelines, eminent domain, and the state's role in economic development. Crabtree previously led the Senate when the legislature approved pipeline regulations, which were later repealed by voters and replaced with a ban on eminent domain for carbon pipelines in 2025. That ban prompted Summit Carbon Solutions to reroute its proposed pipeline around the state. The new leadership will take office as the state also grapples with data center restrictions and broader questions about how to handle large infrastructure projects. The outcome of this internal Republican struggle will shape how South Dakota approaches future energy and industrial proposals, including any renewed attempts at carbon capture or transport. With the next legislative session starting January 12, observers will watch whether the new leaders push for more permissive or restrictive policies on land use and project siting.