Top Contenders Clash in South Dakota Gubernatorial Debate on April 27

The leading candidates for the 2026 South Dakota Republican gubernatorial primary will participate in a televised debate on April 27, 2026. The event, organized by The Dakota Scout and Forum Communications, aims to provide voters with insights into the candidates’ policies and visions for the state’s future. Scheduled to take place in downtown Sioux Falls, the debate will feature Gov. Larry Rhoden, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, House Speaker Jon Hansen, and businessman Toby Doeden.

The debate is set to begin at 19:30 and will be broadcast live on KSFL-TV in eastern South Dakota and KNBN NewsCenter 1 in the Black Hills. Both stations are part of Forum Communications Company, which also oversees SiouxFallsLive.com and the Mitchell Republic. The event will be moderated by Jonathan Ellis, co-founder of The Dakota Scout, and Patrick Lalley, editor of Sioux Falls Live.

According to Joe Sneve, co-founder of The Dakota Scout, this debate represents a critical opportunity for voters to engage with the candidates during what he describes as one of the most significant elections in South Dakota’s history. “Voters will hear from candidates in one of the most consequential and historic elections in South Dakota history,” Sneve stated.

The debate will be livestreamed across various digital platforms and will include extensive pre- and post-debate coverage across print and online media. Organizers plan to allow limited public attendance, with further details forthcoming. The April 27 debate follows another event scheduled for April 13, which is co-hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting and South Dakota News Watch.

Rhoden’s campaign has indicated that he is unlikely to participate in more than one additional debate. In a statement, Rhoden emphasized the importance of debates for South Dakotans to assess candidates’ records and their visions for the future. “Being governor is a full-time job, and the debates that are scheduled should have a statewide media broadcast to reach the most South Dakotans possible,” he remarked.

Johnson’s campaign confirmed his commitment to the two scheduled debates while remaining open to additional opportunities. “Rep. Johnson has already committed to two debates and will consider additional opportunities as they arise and as the congressional calendar allows,” said a spokesperson.

Doeden and Hansen expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming debate. “People deserve a chance to see firsthand who they want to be governor,” Doeden remarked, stressing the importance of addressing voters’ questions. Hansen echoed this sentiment, stating, “I will adjust my schedule to be available wherever and whenever the other candidates agree to appear to debate the future of South Dakota.”

As candidates prepare for the debates, the political landscape in South Dakota is poised for a dynamic and engaging contest as they vie for the Republican nomination.