Who Is Running for Governor of South Dakota in 2026?

Larry Rhoden supports economic growth, advocating for responsible planning to seize opportunities and prepare for the future. He announced state economic development grants, including $900,000 for Dakota BioWorx and $500,000 for Watertown infrastructure, along with $1 million for Aberdeen business parks. Rhoden also backs legislation to establish a State Apprenticeship Agency, aiming for greater flexibility in structuring apprenticeships for South Dakota businesses.

Governor Larry Rhoden signed HB 1044, allocating funds for the Rural Health Transformation Program to enhance access to care, modernize rural facilities, and recruit healthcare professionals. He also signed HB 1043 to strengthen the rural healthcare workforce, emphasizing that rural communities are a priority for quality healthcare access. Additionally, he called on lawmakers to prevent abortion pills from entering South Dakota.

Larry Rhoden, as Governor, called on lawmakers in January 2026 to prevent abortion pills from entering South Dakota, stating they pose a threat to unborn lives and cause complications for women. His office also supported legislation defining the state's abortion ban exceptions to exclude ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage management. Throughout his legislative career, he has voted in favor of measures such as abortion limitations, pre-abortion sonograms, offering sonograms, and requiring counseling and waiting periods before an abortion.

Larry Rhoden proposed a flat education budget for 2026, citing limited revenues and declining public school enrollment, while noting a 27.9% funding increase since 2019. He announced the state will opt into a federal education tax credit program to expand school choice, aiming to support innovation in learning. Rhoden also proposed legislation for a State Apprenticeship Agency, dedicated $6 million to literacy instruction, and signed bills supporting higher education facilities.