Claire Rydberg Malfero is a lifelong South Dakotan with a passion for public service, civic engagement, and community leadership.

A 2020 graduate of Pierre High School, Claire is currently pursuing an online degree in Public Policy with a minor in History while building a career in public service and grassroots engagement.

Her leadership journey began in high school, where she served as Legislative Communications Director for the South Dakota Republican Party (SDGOP) and as President of her church youth group. In 2021, she became President of the Central South Dakota Republican Women and served on multiple community and political boards, deepening her involvement in state and local issues.

Also in 2021, Claire interned in the Office of Governor Kristi Noem, gaining firsthand experience in state government while continuing her education. The following year, she joined the Governor’s 2022 reelection campaign as a Strike Team Coordinator and then returned to the Governor’s Office as an Executive Assistant later that same year.

In July 2024, Claire stepped into her current role as Grassroots Engagement Director for Americans for Prosperity–South Dakota (AFP–SD), where she leads efforts to connect citizens with policy solutions that expand freedom and opportunity across the state.

Outside of work, Claire lives in Garretson, South Dakota, with her Husband, Brant, and their two-year-old Goldendoodle, Tito. Faith plays a central role in Claire’s life, and in her free time, she enjoys fishing, hunting, baking, and hiking with Brant and Tito.