MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — The first Republican debate in South Dakota’s race for governor brought together four candidates to discuss key issues, including property rights and carbon dioxide pipeline development.
Incumbent Larry Rhoden appeared alongside Jon Hansen, Dusty Johnson, and Toby Doeden, with much of the discussion centered on the “Not In My Backyard” movement and the use of eminent domain for CO2 pipelines.
Rhoden and Johnson both emphasized the importance of protecting property owners’ rights. At the same time, Rhoden noted the need for South Dakota to remain open to growth and development opportunities tied to infrastructure projects.
Hansen and Doeden raised concerns about the potential for companies to pressure landowners, expressing fears that individuals could be forced from their property. Doeden also connected the issue to his broader proposal for property tax reform.
Meanwhile, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dan Ahlers responded to the debate, criticizing Republican proposals to eliminate property taxes.
In comments to Keloland, Ahlers described those proposals as “reckless” and warned they could have negative consequences for the state’s financial stability.
Ahlers also pointed to his experience in the South Dakota Legislature, saying it has prepared him to work across party lines if elected to the state’s top executive office.
The debate marks an early look at key policy differences in the race, particularly around land use, taxation, and the balance between economic development and property rights.