The leading candidates for the 2026 South Dakota Republican gubernatorial primary are set to participate in a debate on April 27, hosted by The Dakota Scout and Forum Communications. This televised event will take place in downtown Sioux Falls, featuring prominent figures such as Gov. Larry Rhoden, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, House Speaker Jon Hansen, and businessman Toby Doeden. Organizers are promoting this debate as a critical opportunity for voters to engage with the candidates.
According to Joe Sneve, co-founder of The Dakota Scout, this election is poised to be one of the most significant in South Dakota’s history. “Voters will hear from candidates in one of the most consequential and historic elections in South Dakota history,” he stated. He emphasized the responsibility of the next Republican nominee, noting that they will shape the state’s future and represent conservative values.
The debate is scheduled to begin at 19:30 and will be broadcast on KSFL-TV in eastern South Dakota and KNBN NewsCenter 1 in the Black Hills. Both networks are part of Forum Communications Company, which is expanding its presence in print, digital, and television media within the state. The event will be moderated by Jonathan Ellis, a respected journalist, alongside Patrick Lalley, editor of Sioux Falls Live.
Forum Communications’ Chief Content Officer, Mary Jo Hotzler, noted the collaboration between The Dakota Scout and Forum Communications as a merger of strong political reporting with extensive media reach. “Debates between political candidates, under questioning by professional journalists, give voters the information they need to help make decisions,” Hotzler remarked. This debate will also be livestreamed across various digital platforms, accompanied by comprehensive pre- and post-debate coverage.
As part of the ongoing campaign, candidates are expected to participate in another debate on April 13, co-hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting and South Dakota News Watch. Rhoden’s campaign has indicated that he may not engage in additional debates beyond these two. “I realize that debates are a crucial tool for South Dakotans to contrast the candidates’ records and their ideas for the state’s future,” Rhoden said in a statement. He called for debates to be broadcast statewide to maximize voter reach.
While Rhoden’s campaign appears limited in debate commitments, Johnson’s team has expressed a willingness to consider further opportunities. “Rep. Johnson has already committed to two debates and will consider additional opportunities as they arise,” a spokesperson confirmed. Doeden and Hansen have also indicated their eagerness for public discourse. “People deserve a chance to see firsthand who they want to be governor,” Doeden stated, highlighting the demand for answers on pressing issues.
Hansen shared similar sentiments, expressing his readiness to adjust his schedule to accommodate further debates. “I will adjust my schedule to be available wherever and whenever the other candidates agree to appear to debate the future of South Dakota,” he asserted.
This upcoming debate represents a pivotal moment in the South Dakota gubernatorial campaign, providing a platform for candidates to articulate their visions and engage directly with voters. As the election approaches, these forums will play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing the direction of the state’s leadership.
