My name is Toni Miller and I am running for the State House in District 9. I’ve decided to run because I believe we can do better in South Dakota. I am a lifelong resident of South Dakota, working in the community and attended public schools. I am a hard worker and have dedicated over half of my life caring for others. I was taught at a young age that my job was to stand up for people who cannot stand up for themselves, and I will be a strong voice for South Dakotans.

I began my career in healthcare as a nursing assistant. I went on to graduate from SDSU with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I have been asked the question, “If you could have any job you wanted, what would you do.” I answered, “a nurse.”  Being a nurse is rewarding, knowing you’re helping someone when they are often at their most vulnerable, gaining their trust, and being an advocate for them and their loved ones.

I am also an active volunteer with the Society of St. Vincent DePaul. Our mission is to end poverty through systemic change. We help our friends and neighbors in times of need, by assisting with rent, utilities, food, clothing, and other issues that greatly effect the working poor. St. Vincent DePaul volunteers or “Vincentians” walk in lock step with charity and justice. Although this is true, I have learned during my several visits with our friends in their homes, charity is not a substitute for justice. This is another reason I decided to run for the State House, to make changes from the top down, instead of just helping those who have fallen through the cracks.

I will work tirelessly for District 9 and all of South Dakota, just as I have as an RN and a Vincentian.  I know we can make a difference when we all work together for the greater good.