South Dakota's GOP Candidates Take the Debate Stage

Candidates diverge on school plans in third Republican governor debate

From left, Gov. Larry Rhoden, state House Speaker Jon Hansen, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and businessman Toby Doeden participate in a Republican gubernatorial debate on April 27, 2026, at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. (Photo by Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)The frontrunner for South Dakota’s Republican nomination for governor said his plan to improve student performance will not include mandatory public preschool, as differing ide…

South Dakota's GOP candidates take the debate stage

The 2026 GOP gubernatorial debate, organized and hosted by Sioux Falls Live and The Dakota Scout, features U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, Gov. Larry Rhoden, House Speaker Jon Hansen and businessman Toby Doeden.

Candidates diverge on school plans in third Republican governor debate - Stateline Publications

From left, Gov. Larry Rhoden, state House Speaker Jon Hansen, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and businessman Toby Doeden participate in a Republican gubernatorial debate on April 27, 2026, at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. (Photo by Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)The frontrunner for South Dakota’s Republican nomination for governor said his plan to improve student performance will not include mandatory public preschool, as differing ide…

Keep the lights on: Scouting Lounge goes live after GOP debate between governor candidates

Moderators for this week’s Republican gubernatorial debate will stay on stage after the final question — turning the event into a live, post-debate broadcast aimed at capturing the immediate reaction from candidates, campaigns and the state’s political class.The special edition of The Scouting Lounge will be hosted by Jonathan Ellis of The Dakota Scout and Patrick Lalley of Sioux Falls Live, following their roles as moderators of the debate.The …

LIVE at 9:30: Patrick Lalley and Jonathan Ellis recap the Republican gubernatorial debate

The livestream from the post-debate reception should start about 9:30 p.m. https://youtube.com/live/tmsS1E0i8ao?feature=share ]]>