Jon Hansen Announces 2026 South Dakota Governor Run with Karla Lems as Running Mate

The 2026 South Dakota Governor’s race is officially underway as Republican Speaker of the State House Jon Hansen launched his campaign during a public event at the Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls.

By Patrick Johnson April 25, 2025 11:38 am

South Dakota government accountability Senate Bill 62 Senate Bill 63 Marty Jackley legislation mandatory misconduct reporting state employee whistleblower protections South Dakota ethics laws new laws July 1 2025 government transparency South Dakota improper conduct reporting rules — Metro Services

PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota’s 2026 race for Governor is officially on. Republican Jon Hansen, who currently serves as Speaker of the State House, announced his candidacy last night. Hansen confirmed his run with a public event at the Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls. He was joined by Republican Representative Karla Lems, the current Speaker Pro Tempore, as his running mate for lieutenant governor. Hansen and Lems are the first ticket to officially enter the race. Earlier this week, Republican U.S. Senator Mike Rounds confirmed it won’t be happening but noted he seriously considered a run because “it’s the greatest job in the world.” However, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson did not give away any indication when asked this week if he will give up his seat in Congress and run for South Dakota Governor next year. He said it’s something he’s considered, but he’s focused on his day job and the race is too far out to tell at this time. Current Governor Larry Rhoden says he’s not making a public announcement until his Open for Opportunity tour is over. Lastly, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is supposed to comment on his plans sometime today. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.

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