For the first time in its history, South Dakota will have a runoff election to determine which GOP candidate for the governor's race will move to the November ballot.
On Tuesday evening the state had its primary election with results showing candidates Toby Doeden at 31 percent, incumbent Larry Rhoden at 25 percent, Dusty Johnson at 23 percent, and Jon Hansen at 21 percent. None of the candidates received the 35 percent that was needed to move forward.
Doeden, a businessman, says he plans to reduce property taxes, cut wasteful spending, and defend pro-life rights. This is his first time running for political office.
Rhoden first assumed the position of governor once Kristy Noem left to become the head of the department of homeland security in early 2025. According to Rhoden’s website, his accomplishments include the largest property tax cut in state history, which was passed by the legislature this year.
As for the results for the state’s congressional seat, South Dakota’s current Attorney General Marty Jackley won by 79 percent, with James Bialota following at 21 percent.
Jackley’s priorities include protecting the border, reducing taxes, and rebuilding the country’s national defense. Jackley has been serving as South Dakota’s attorney general for 13 years.
During his time as attorney general, he has served as chairman of the National Association of Attorneys General and won a legal battle against Maday Health.
Lastly, for the Senate seat, U.S. Senator Mike Rounds secured his spot for November with 76 percent, leaving Justin McNeal at 24 percent.
Rounds’ priorities include strengthening the border, tax cuts, and supporting farmers and ranchers. He has previously served as governor and a state senator in the South Dakota legislature. Rounds was initially sworn into the U.S. Senate in 2015 and was reelected in 2020.
The runoff election for the governor race is on July 28, 2026. The general election is on Tuesday, November 3.
