Republican voters in South Dakota are set to return to the polls on Tuesday for a gubernatorial primary runoff. The contest is between Governor Larry Rhoden and businessman Toby Doeden. Neither candidate achieved the required majority in the initial primary on June 2, leading to this critical runoff.
Rhoden, who assumed the governorship after Kristi Noem joined the Trump administration, faced a tough initial challenge, trailing Doeden by 5 percentage points. This puts pressure on Rhoden as he seeks a full-term leadership in the Mount Rushmore State.
The runoff has garnered significant attention, though President Trump has not publicly commented on the race. Voters in this predominantly Republican state will decide between the two candidates as polls are set to close at 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Live updates on the results are available from Decision Desk HQ.
