SouthernWorldwide.com – South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden has successfully navigated the initial stage of a competitive Republican gubernatorial primary, advancing to a runoff election against the leading challenger, businessman Toby Doeden. The outcome was confirmed on Wednesday.
Representative Dusty Johnson, a Republican from South Dakota, was widely expected to be Rhoden’s main rival. However, House Speaker Jon Hansen, also a Republican, did not secure enough votes to proceed in the race.
According to state law, if no candidate achieves the 35% threshold in a primary with three or more contenders, an eight-week runoff period is mandated. A new election will then be held on June 28.
Rhoden, who previously served as Lieutenant Governor under former Governor Kristi Noem, is a rancher with a background in state legislative leadership. He stepped into the gubernatorial role after Noem’s departure to serve as Homeland Security Secretary.
Rhoden, recognizable by his signature cowboy hat, is a native of western South Dakota. He dedicated 16 years to the state legislature and has prioritized continuing Noem’s agenda, aiming to maintain South Dakota’s status as one of the most affordable and business-friendly states in the nation.
In a colorful comparison, Rhoden likened his situation to the famed groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil. Speaking to the South Dakota Searchlight, he remarked, “I kind of feel like that proverbial groundhog who came up and saw my shadow, and now there’s going to be eight more weeks of campaigning.”
Meanwhile, Doeden celebrated his victory as a political outsider, having secured the top position against the established political figures.
Rhoden’s policy positions include opposition to abortion and support for Second Amendment rights. He has also collaborated with his predecessor on homeland security initiatives, including joint operations with ICE for immigration enforcement.
President Donald Trump’s silence during this crowded primary was notable. South Dakota News Watch recently inquired about this lack of endorsement to Governor Rhoden.
“I don’t spend a lot of time fretting about it,” the governor stated in response.
“If you look at who he’s endorsed, he likes endorsing winners and seldom goes out on a limb. And here we have a four-way primary with a seated House member in the race,” Rhoden explained, suggesting that Trump tends to favor making secure choices.
Doeden ran his campaign on the platform of being a political outsider, positioning himself as a populist candidate.
His campaign was largely self-funded, and Doeden presented himself as a conservative alternative to the political establishment in Pierre.
Hansen, the other contender who did not advance, was considered the establishment conservative challenger. He has served in the State House for over a decade.
