South Dakota House Speaker will seek GOP nomination for governor
Jon Hansen, Rep. Karla Lems to make campaign announcement next week
Speaker of the South Dakota House Jon Hansen and a close legislative ally are expected to announce next week that they are seeking the governor’s mansion in 2026, making them the first entrants into the highly anticipated race.
Hansen, a Dell Rapids Republican, is scheduled to make an announcement April 24 with fellow Rep. Karla Lems at his side. It’s an indication that the Canton Republican would be Hansen’s running mate.
While he declined to confirm a gubernatorial run when contacted by The Dakota Scout Thursday, Hansen didn’t dispute it.
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