Independent Candidate with Criminal History Enters South Dakota Governor’s Race

Terry Gleason, a Chamberlain man with a criminal record, has announced his candidacy for South Dakota governor in the 2026 election. A registered Republican running as an independent, Gleason acknowledges the uphill battle ahead but says he’s motivated to set a positive example for his children and advocate for inclusivity across the state.

By Christal Blue August 6, 2025 11:48 am

South Dakota secretary of state race 2026 Heather Baxter Rapid City secretary of state candidate Monae Johnson South Dakota secretary of state South Dakota GOP primary 2026 Republican secretary of state challenger SD South Dakota election accessibility and security Terrence Davis Sioux Falls Democrat candidate South Dakota secretary of state primary battle South Dakota elections leadership race incumbent secretary of state Monae Johnson reelection — Mitchell Now

PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) A Chamberlain man with a criminal record is launching a bid for South Dakota governor. Terry Gleason, a registered Republican running as an independent, says he knows it’s a long shot but wants to set a positive example for his children and promote inclusivity in the state. Gleason is on the state’s sex offender registry for a 2000 conviction involving a 15-year-old girl, a charge he continues to deny. He says his past shouldn’t disqualify him from earning the support of voters. Gleason joins a growing field of candidates for the 2026 race, including several Republicans and at least one Democrat. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.

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