Larry Rhoden owes his new job as governor to Kristi Noem, but her political career might have stalled shortly after it began if not for his help, according to a story they’ve both shared publicly. As a new state legislator in 2007,

Governor Rhoden grew up as a rancher in Meade County and served in the South Dakota National Guard from 1978 to 1985. He has stated that said experience has prepared him to tackle the most pressing issue that South Dakotans face. Republican State Senator Helene Duhamel of district 32 in Rapid City gave her remarks while congratulating Rhoden.

New South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden deflected questions about his political future during his swearing-in ceremony Monday at the Capitol. When asked by the media if he plans to run in the 2026 race for governor,

Kristi Noem's confirmation as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on Saturday triggers the Union Center native's rise as the 34th governor of South Dakota.

Gov. Larry Rhoden said he chose Tony Venhuizen as lieutenant governor for his knowledge of the Legislature and experience in the executive branch.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden delivered his first joint address to the South Dakota Legislature as governor on Tuesday. His full speech is here:

Larry Rhoden now. Rhoden, previously the lieutenant governor of South Dakota under former Gov. Kristi Noem, officially succeeded to governor of South Dakota during a private swearing-in ceremony Monday.