South Dakota Republican Party blocks journalist from attending Thune and Mullin speeches

At a South Dakota Republican Party convention, media outlets including Searchlight were unexpectedly barred from attending speeches by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. Despite having registered and received confirmation days prior, Searchlight was denied access on the night of the event. This move highlights a concerning trend of limiting press freedom and transparency, especially during key political gatherings. It raises questions about the party's commitment to open communication and democratic principles.