South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden successfully defeated businessman Toby Doeden in the state’s gubernatorial primary runoff, marking a historic electoral event. The Associated Press projected Rhoden’s victory shortly after the polling stations closed. At that moment, Rhoden had secured 70.5% of the votes, while Doeden garnered 29.5%, with a quarter of the ballots counted.
This primary was the first occasion South Dakota voters needed to decide a gubernatorial nomination via a runoff. State legislation dictates that if no candidate receives at least 35% of the vote for governor, U.S. Senate, or U.S. House during the primary, a runoff occurs between the top contenders.
The runoff followed a June primary where Doeden initially led with 30.6% of the vote. Rhoden came in second with 25.2%. Neither candidate reached the 35% threshold necessary to secure the nomination directly.
Rhoden assumed the gubernatorial office in early 2025 after Kristi Noem vacated the position to join the Trump administration. Doeden entered the race with a background as a businessman and was known for his avid promotion of Bitcoin. He disclosed extensive investment in Bitcoin since 2020 and advocated for legislation to allow state pension funds to invest in the cryptocurrency, alongside suggesting the establishment of a state Bitcoin reserve.
The election results propel Rhoden into the upcoming contest against former Democratic state Senator Dan Ahlers in November. South Dakota has not seen a Democratic governor since Harvey Wollman in 1979, and the last election of a Democrat occurred with Richard Kneip’s re-election in 1974.
Property taxes surfaced as a pivotal issue throughout the campaign. Doeden advocated for the elimination of property taxes, which Rhoden’s team criticized as financially irresponsible, arguing it could significantly reduce funding for local governments and schools. Rhoden’s campaign emphasized his record on tax relief, noting the signing of substantial property tax cuts in March.
During the campaign, Doeden characterized Rhoden as entrenched within the state’s political landscape, suggesting that political newcomers face challenges against established officials. Rhoden dismissed these claims, asserting that his extensive legislative experience equips him to suggest practical solutions. He stressed his belief that living under the laws he helped write offers essential insight.
Despite Doeden’s branding as a staunch Trump supporter, former President Donald Trump refrained from publicly endorsing a candidate in this runoff. Although Trump mentioned Rhoden during Mount Rushmore comments in July, he did not reference the governor’s race.
Alec Schemmel, Politics Reporter for Fox News Digital, has provided coverage of this unfolding political contest from his base in the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore Metro Area.
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