Katie (Wagner) Washnok earned her formal education at the University of South Dakota, focusing in Political Science both in education and early career accomplishments. Today, with her husband, James, Katie owns and operates several small businesses specializing in motorcycle and automotive custom design and manufacturing, Blackout Industries.

James is a third-generation South Dakota Farmer; together, we operate the family farms at Verdon, SD.

Katie grew up in the Republican Party; her involvement dates back farther than her ability to register with a party. Formally, she has served as State Chairman of the South Dakota Teenage Republicans, National Committee Woman to the South Dakota Young Republicans, member of the South Dakota Federation of Republican Women, Secretary/Treasurer for the Brown County Republicans, and currently serves as Chairman of the Brown County Republicans.

Katie is a community involvement enthusiast, committed to making our corner of the world a better place. She enjoys serving through many facets; in addition to her commitments to the GOP, she is the current President of the Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, 1 Million Cups Aberdeen/Micropolitan Organization team, Junior Achievement classroom volunteer, BIG Idea committee, administrative board and worship leader at Aldersgate Church, to name a few.

Katie, her husband James, and their children, Jett and Whitley, proudly reside in Aberdeen, SD.

To build on her commitment to making our region an even better place to call home, Katie has set her sights on formal public service. She asks for your support to represent District 3, and the greater Aberdeen Area in Pierre as your next State Senator.