South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden confirms 2026 election ambitions

Noem successor tells GOP donors that primary campaign must be viable with strong financial backing

Gov. Larry Rhoden is flanked by his chief of staff, Mackenzie Decker (left) and Ian Fury, director of communications in the governor’s office. Leading them down the Capitol rotunda stairs is a member of Rhoden’s security team. (Joe Sneve/The Dakota Scout)

Gov. Larry Rhoden wants six years in the Governor’s Mansion.

But the Union Center rancher’s 2026 ambitions hinge on whether he can raise enough money to take on a pair of deep-pocketed Republicans also vying for the party’s nomination in next June’s primary election.

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