Recent announcements, polling data, and campaign finance filings are shaping the landscape for South Dakota’s 2026 statewide races.
U.S. Senate Race:
Republican Justin McNeal of Rapid City has entered the race, challenging incumbent Sen. Mike Rounds in the GOP primary. McNeal, a Navy veteran and founder of Dakota BioChar, criticized campaign finance practices and national debt in his launch. Democrat Julian Beaudion and independent Brian Bengs have also declared candidacies.
Governor’s Race:
A new poll of Republican voters shows U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson narrowly leading Gov. Larry Rhoden (28% to 27%), followed by Toby Doeden (15%) and Jon Hansen (10%).
Declared candidates include Democrat Robert Arnold and independents Allison Renville and Terry Gleason.
U.S. House Race:
Attorney General Marty Jackley leads the GOP field with 57%, ahead of Casey Crabtree (5%) and James Bialota (2%).
Democratic candidates include Nikki Gronli, Billy Mawhiney, and Scott Schlagel.
Fundraising Highlights:
• Sen. Rounds: $2.8M cash on hand
• Beaudion: $31K Bengs: $30K
• Jackley: $503K Crabtree: $181K
• Gronli: $21K Mawhiney: $8.5K
Johnson has $6M available for a gubernatorial run.
Other Statewide Races:
• Attorney General: Austin Hoffman and Lance Russell seek GOP nomination.
• State Treasurer: Jeff Monroe enters GOP race.
• State Auditor: David Barranco announces GOP bid.
• Secretary of State: Monae Johnson seeks reelection; Heather Baxter and Democrat Terrence Davis also running.
• Public Utilities Commission: Don Haggar seeks GOP nomination to replace Gary Hanson.
South Dakota’s primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.
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