Jon Hansen Announces Candidacy for South Dakota Governor

South Dakota's 2026 gubernatorial race has officially begun with Republican State House Speaker Jon Hansen announcing his candidacy, making him the first to enter the race. Hansen, a Dell Rapids lawyer with ten years in the state legislature and a background in anti-abortion advocacy, is joined by Representative Karla Lems as his running mate. Their ticket emphasizes grassroots momentum and prioritizes defending the rights and liberties of South Dakotans, with both candidates opposing liquid carbon dioxide pipeline projects and supporting property rights. Hansen has a legislative record that includes sponsoring bills to change the ballot petition process and opposing commercial surrogacy, while Lems recently succeeded in passing a bill restricting eminent domain for carbon pipelines. Other prominent Republicans, including Governor Larry Rhoden, Congressman Dusty Johnson, and Attorney General Marty Jackley, are rumored as possible contenders but have not yet made official announcements. The primary election is scheduled for June of next year.