South Dakota Republican Gubernatorial Race: Dusty Johnson Leads Incumbent Larry Rhoden in Polls
The race for the Republican nomination for Governor of South Dakota is intensifying as candidates prepare for the June primary. Recent polling and the first official debate have highlighted a competitive field, with U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson currently holding a plurality of support over incumbent Governor Larry Rhoden and other challengers.
Current Polling and Candidate Standings
A survey conducted by Emerson College Polling and KELO-TV indicates that U.S. Congressman Dusty Johnson leads the field with 28% support. The remaining candidates follow in the poll as follows:
- Toby Doeden: 18%
- Gov. Larry Rhoden: 17%
- State House Speaker Jon Hansen: 14%
- Undecided: 23%
Johnson’s lead is particularly strong among specific demographics, leading Rhoden by 23 points among voters under 40 and by 14 points among women.
Candidate Profiles and Campaign Dynamics
The race features a mix of established political figures and business leaders:
- Larry Rhoden: The incumbent governor assumed office after Kristi Noem was appointed to the Trump administration. Rhoden’s campaign emphasizes his legislative experience and achievements, most notably the largest property tax cut in the state’s history, according to SD News Watch.
- Dusty Johnson: A member of Congress who has positioned himself as a primary contender. While leading in polls, he faces scrutiny over his role in Washington, D.C., particularly during a period of a significant partial government shutdown.
- Toby Doeden: An Aberdeen businessman who has emerged as a significant challenger. Financial disclosures from the end of January 2025 reveal Doeden raised approximately $2.1 million, the majority of which came from his personal fortune.
- Jon Hansen: The state House Speaker is the fourth candidate seeking the nomination.
Financial Resources
Campaign funding varies significantly across the candidates. While Toby Doeden leads in total funds raised at $2.1 million, Dusty Johnson raised roughly $1.6 million in 2025 and received an additional $900,000 from an affiliated political action committee (SD News Watch).
Key Issues and Voter Concerns
Voters in South Dakota are prioritizing a variety of economic and social issues. According to Emerson College Polling, the top concerns include:
- The Economy: 35% of voters
- Threats to Democracy: 13% of voters
- Housing Affordability: 13% of voters
- Education: 11% of voters
- Healthcare: 9% of voters
the development of data centers has become a point of contention, with 51% of South Dakota voters opposing their construction in or near their communities, while 30% support them.
The First Gubernatorial Debate
The candidates met for their first debate on April 4, 2026. The event featured Johnson, Rhoden, Doeden, and Hansen. According to South Dakota Searchlight, the debate highlighted differing approaches to governance, with Johnson presenting “plans” for education and the attraction of data centers, while Governor Rhoden’s performance was characterized as less polished in the debate setting.
Key Takeaways
- Poll Leader: Dusty Johnson leads with 28% support.
- Incumbent Challenge: Governor Larry Rhoden trails Johnson and Toby Doeden in current polling.
- Funding: Toby Doeden has the highest campaign funds, largely self-funded.
- Top Issue: The economy remains the primary concern for 35% of South Dakota voters.
- Primary Date: The Republican primary is scheduled for June.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently leading the South Dakota Republican governor’s race?
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson currently leads with 28% support according to an Emerson College Polling/KELO-TV survey.
How did Larry Rhoden become governor?
Larry Rhoden took office after Kristi Noem was appointed to the Trump administration.
What are the main issues facing South Dakota voters in 2026?
The most pressing issues are the economy, threats to democracy, housing affordability, education, and healthcare.