Rhoden sat down with KOTA Territory News hours after making his announcement. Asked about his top priorities, Governor Rhoden replied, “Well I’ve said it many times, my priority is to keep South Dakota strong, safe and free. And that’s more than, you know, that’s more than just a soundbite. I really believe that in my heart of hearts,”

Rhoden was elevated from lieutenant governor in January when Noem resigned to become secretary of the federal Department of Homeland Security. Since then, while serving the remainder of Noem’s second term, Rhoden has been attempting to prove his policy-over-politics mantra.

The South Dakota Board of Elections has started sorting through possible proposals for the coming legislative session. Secretary of State Monae Johnson and her deputy, Tom Deadrick, brought 17 sets of potential changes for board members to discuss on Tuesday.

Governor Larry Rhoden officially announced his reelection campaign at the Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City on Tuesday, November 18.The announcement regarding a gubernatorial run from Rhoden has been eagerly awaited.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden says he's running to remain in office next June. He's seeking a full term after taking over the state's top office in January when former Gov. Kristi Noem joined the Trump administration.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden officially announced Tuesday that he is running for a full term in next June’s Republican