VIEWPOINT | In gubernatorial runoff, South Dakota voters opened our closed primary
Guest column by Joe Kirby
South Dakota’s Republican runoff for governor produced an unexpected experiment in election reform.
Thousands of Democrats and independent voters changed their registrations so they could participate in the Republican primary. They didn’t suddenly become Republicans. They simply wanted a meaningful voice in choosing the person who will likely become South Dakota’s next governor. And the system responded.
Toby Doeden entered the runoff with a passionate and loyal following. His populist message energized a segment of Republican voters and generated considerable attention throughout the campaign.
