Terry Gleason, a 44-year-old Chamberlain resident, has announced his candidacy for South Dakota governor in 2026. Though a registered Republican, he is running as an independent and acknowledges the uphill battle ahead. Gleason says his motivation stems from a desire to set an example for his children and advocate for a more inclusive South Dakota.
His campaign begins amid controversy. Gleason is listed on the state’s sex offender registry due to a 2000 conviction involving a 15-year-old girl—a charge he continues to deny. He maintains that his past should not disqualify him from earning the support of voters.
Gleason enters a growing field of candidates, with multiple Republicans and at least one Democrat already in the race.
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