U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds suggested that the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, an iconic venue known for its concerts, patriotic displays, and strong pro-Trump sentiment, would be an ideal destination for a presidential visit.
STURGIS, S.D. – There are hopes the leader of the free world might make a high-octane appearance at the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally this August.
That’s the result of U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds sending a formal invitation to President Donald Trump to attend the world-renowned motorcycle festival held each summer in South Dakota’s Black Hills. Should Trump accept, he would become the first sitting president to ever attend the event, which draws hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the globe every August.
“The rally began in 1938 and … has hosted America-First artists such as Kid Rock, Jason Aldean and Toby Keith, among others,” Rounds wrote in a letter obtained by The Dakota Scout. “We’re biased, but it’s an experience every red-blooded American should witness, or better yet, participate in.”
The Republican senator suggested in a letter delivered to the White House Friday the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, an iconic venue known for its concerts, patriotic displays, and strong pro-Trump sentiment, would be an ideal destination for a presidential visit. The campground and entertainment complex has become a centerpiece of the rally, famously hosting GOP presidential nominee John McCain in 2008. The entertainment venue and campground also draws celebrities and rock stars.
“South Dakota is Trump Country,” Rounds wrote. “We’d love to introduce you on stage during one of our premier concerts, in front of tens of thousands of fans and we’re thoroughly convinced you’ll be impressed with the reception.”
That former South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is now serving in the president’s Cabinet — serving as secretary of Homeland Security — doesn’t hurt the chances of Trump accepting the invitation. Noem frequented the rally during her tenure at the state Capitol.
Like Noem, Rounds is also familiar to the rally. A seasoned motorcycle rider, the Pierre resident who’s served in the U.S. Senate since 2015, often attended the Black Hills motorcycle party during his time as governor and prior.
The invitation notes that this year’s rally marks the 85th anniversary of the event, which Rounds said will be “a must-see experience, glowing with American pride with the roar of American muscle in the background.”
“Thank you for leading our great country,” he added. “We’d love to honor you with an appreciation event like you’ve never seen.”
The 2025 rally runs Aug. 2–11.
