Rhoden won't debate Doeden ahead of runoff in South Dakota GOP governor primary race

Governor's campaign accuses Aberdeen businessman of making false claims during previous forums in declining forum invitations

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden (right) has declined to debate Republican runoff rival Toby Doeden, citing false claims in previous forums. (Dakota Scout photos)

Gov. Larry Rhoden will not participate in a one-on-one debate against Republican gubernatorial runoff opponent Toby Doeden before South Dakota voters choose their party’s nominee later this month.

The Rhoden for South Dakota campaign made the announcement Friday afternoon amid growing pressure from South Dakota news outlets and the Aberdeen businessman’s campaign to participate in additional public forums ahead of next month’s runoff election, which will determine the Republican nominee for governor.

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