The South Dakota Farmers Union is denying recent allegations of election tampering and mismanagement that resulted in two districts passing resolutions asking for the resignation of state officers and a special election. Communication Specialist Kecia Beranek says the Board disagrees with the Save Farmers Union Coalition that the election was invalid. She says they will not be taking any action to remove leadership or redo the 2015 election.

Beranek also refutes allegations of management and leadership issues at the state office and the reported abuse of employees.

She also added that the Save Farmers Union Coalition and specifically Mike O’Connor have no proof of election fraud or any of the management issues serving as the basis for the resolutions being voted on in the districts.

Even if all seven districts pass similar resolutions, Beraneck says the board will not waver on its decision.

In a letter to the members posted on the South Dakota Farmers Union website the board of directors say they are saddened that a very small segment of the membership is attempting to stunt the growth of the Farmers Union.