Story perspectives

Doeden Leads SD GOP Primary, Triggers Rhoden Runoff

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Businessman Toby Doeden, who invested $4 million of his own money, led the South Dakota GOP gubernatorial primary with roughly 31 percent of the vote.
Because no candidate hit the 35 percent threshold, Doeden will face Governor Larry Rhoden in a July 28 runoff for the Republican nomination.
Rep. Dusty Johnson earned about 23 percent and Speaker Jon Hansen about 21 percent.
GOP nominee will meet Democrat Dan Ahlers in the November 3 general election.

History

Historical Context

South Dakota adopted a runoff-primary law in 1992, requiring at least 35 % of the vote in a three-candidate race to avoid a second ballot. Similar thresholds exist in Georgia and Louisiana, where low first-round totals trigger runoffs. The rule now forces GOP contenders Toby Doeden and Governor Larry Rhoden into a July 28 runoff that will decide the November 3 gubernatorial race.

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Story summary

Businessman Toby Doeden, who invested $4 million of his own money, led the South Dakota GOP gubernatorial primary with roughly 31 percent of the vote.
Because no candidate hit the 35 percent threshold, Doeden will face Governor Larry Rhoden in a July 28 runoff for the Republican nomination.
Rep. Dusty Johnson earned about 23 percent and Speaker Jon Hansen about 21 percent.
GOP nominee will meet Democrat Dan Ahlers in the November 3 general election.

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