SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — South Dakota has its first announced ticket for governor and lieutenant governor in 2026.
Republican Rep. Jon Hansen announced Thursday he is running for governor at a event where the state’s motto was front and center in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
“‘Under God the People Rule,’” Hansen said. “It’s not just some slogan; it’s our way of life. It’s who we are and who we’re supposed to be. But our way of life is under threat. We’ve seen it over and over and over again in Pierre: the people’s interests are becoming second to special interests.”
The 39-year-old Hansen, a lawyer who represents Minnehaha and Moody Counties in the state legislature, currently serves as speaker of the House of Representatives.
“Grassroots patriots from all across the great state of South Dakota are standing up, and we are saying in record numbers, no more corruption, no more waste and abuse, no more attacks on our land and our liberties and our way of life,” Hansen said. “Today renews the coming of the end for all of that.”
Joining Hansen on his ticket is Republican Karla Lems, who represents Lincoln, Turner and Union Counties in the state House of Representatives.
“We just need to be reminded of how is winning defined,” Lems said. “Remembering the foundation that was laid, reestablishing ourselves upon it and moving ahead together.”
“We are ready on day one to clean up Pierre and restore the government back to the people,” Hansen said.
Private property rights and opposition to abortion were two of the evening’s themes. For the moment, Hansen is the only announced candidate.
“What we’re focused on is not who might run but on the things that we stand for,” Hansen said to gathered media after his announcement.
With regard to running for governor in 2026, current Gov. Larry Rhoden’s office sent KELOLAND News a statement from Rhoden on Wednesday which says in part “we are not ready to make a public announcement.” South Dakota’s lone member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Republican Dusty Johnson, said Tuesday he has considered running for governor.
