The proposal came from the office of Republican Secretary of State Monae Johnson. Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Deadrick walked the board through a slate of 17 “concepts” for legislation that could be introduced during the annual legislative session that starts in January.

Rhoden sat down with KOTA Territory News hours after making his announcement. Asked about his top priorities, Governor Rhoden replied, “Well I’ve said it many times, my priority is to keep South Dakota strong, safe and free. And that’s more than, you know, that’s more than just a soundbite. I really believe that in my heart of hearts,”

The campaign for Republican gubernatorial candidate Toby Doeden posted a video Friday on social media which was selectively edited to exclude quotes from and a photo of Jon Hansen, another GOP candidate in South Dakota’s 2026 race for the governor’s office.