South Dakota Republicans Jon Hansen and Karla Lems say their race will focus on property rights, spending and halting ‘corporate welfare.'

Early voter support in the 2026 Republican primary race for South Dakota governor is focused on U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and incumbent Gov. Larry Rhoden, according to a poll of 500 registered GOP voters co-sponsored by South Dakota News Watch.

While there is only one declared candidate, South Dakota might have a crowded field in the coming GOP primary for governor.

The pair officially announced their 2026 campaign to hundreds of supporters Thursday at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls.

Rumors of a run for the Governor’s Mansion were confirmed and the 2026 campaign has officially begun. Dell Rapids Republican Jon Hansen hopes to capitalize on grassroots momentum and alongside Rep. Karla Lems, they are the first to enter the race.

Two Republican leaders in the South Dakota House have teased a big announcement that some political watchers say is a ticket for governor in 2026.

Speaker Pro Tempore Karla Lems is Hansen's running mate. The two launched their campaign at a rally in Sioux Falls on Thursday, according to the campaign.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — In South Dakota, you will now need to live in the state for 30 consecutive days to be eligible to vote in the state's elections, thanks to a bill the governor signed ...