McNeal is a Navy veteran and businessman who most recently founded Dakota BioChar, which aims to convert forest waste into material that can be spread on agricultural fields to improve soil health. After leaving the military, McNeal earned an MBA and worked in finance in Hawaii before returning to South Dakota. He now owns Dakota Biochar, a company that works on wood accumulation in the Black Hills National Forest and soil health for South Dakota farmers. McNeal is a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate who has submitted enough signatures to appear on the June 2 primary election ballot.
McNeal was born in Illinois and was raised in Texas. He attended public school where he swam, played soccer and lacrosse. He was a Boy Scout and attained the rank of Eagle Scout at age 12. McNeal comes from a family of veterans with strong South Dakota roots. His Great Grandfather Herman Kulpaca served in the US Army during WW 1 and was elected for 2 terms as Mayor of Lead, SD. His Grandfather Charles Kulpaca, OD served in the US Army during WW2 and had an optometry practice in Rapid City for over 40 years.
Make debt reduction the centerpiece of Senate work
In his announcement, McNeal said the largest threat to the nation is its debt, and he pledged to work against what he described as the "unholy trinity": special interests lobbying elected officials, who in turn receive campaign contributions. "This system will never benefit 'We the People,'" McNeal said.
Voting History: No prior voting record as non-incumbent
Eliminate the influence of special interests and lobbyists
McNeal states "For too long, South Dakota has elected Senators who succumb to aggressive lobbying by special interests with deep pockets. In turn, those 'bought and paid for' elected officials enact laws, that benefit the special interests and their allies. Those special interests complete the unholy alliance by repaying in kind with massive political campaign contributions."
Voting History: No prior voting record as non-incumbent
All-of-the-above energy strategy rooted in science
McNeal states "Energy security is national security. With a degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology and real-world experience in nuclear systems, I understand America's energy challenges and opportunities from the inside out." He supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that will "ensure energy policy lowers costs for families, supports local jobs, and keeps decisions rooted in science—not ideology."
Voting History: No prior voting record as non-incumbent
No voting record as non-incumbent candidate
Limited social media activity documented
McNeal is not a viable challenger
Local political observers noted McNeal appears to be setting himself up for difficulty, noting that President Trump already made a strong endorsement of Senator Rounds in late July.