South Dakota’s gubernatorial candidates discussed agriculture, taxes, and pro-life policies during the debate Monday evening.
The candidates include businessman Toby Doeden, Congressman Dusty Johnson, Governor Larry Rhoden, and State House Speaker Jon Hansen.
During the forum, Doeden and Johnson criticized the tax bills Governor Rhoden passed during the 2026 legislative session, saying they raise the sales tax and cost of living in the state.
Rhoden pushed back saying he has provided the largest tax cut in the state’s history, and it will bring relief to property owners. Rhoden mentioned during his time in the South Dakota legislature he has provided results.
Hansen mentioned he was a supporter of the legislation, and he assisted in getting it passed. Throughout the debate Hansen kept reiterating he is not fighting for himself; he is fighting for the residents of South Dakota.
Doeden said he aims to reduce the cost of living in the state by cutting state budgets and unrestricted spending.
All four candidates said they will continue to support pro-life policies and initiatives, with the exception of saving a mother’s life.
Doeden mentioned how reducing the cost of living in the state would allow expecting mothers to reconsider abortion.
One of the questions was how the candidates would address the high maternal and infant mortality rates in the state.
Johnson replied he will address the issue by creating a state surgeon general position and moving Medicaid from the Department of Social Services to the DOH.
The next gubernatorial debate is Monday, April 27, at 7:30 pm.
