Larry Rhoden to Succeed Kristi Noem as South Dakota Governor

Larry Rhoden to Succeed Kristi Noem as South Dakota Governor \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ As South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Homeland Security, Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden is set to step into the governor’s role. Rhoden, a rancher and longtime legislator, is praised for his collaborative leadership and South Dakota-focused approach. While continuity in conservative policies is expected, his leadership style may differ from Noem’s nationally engaged approach.

Larry Rhoden: South Dakota’s New Governor in the Making

• Noem’s nomination: Kristi Noem tapped by Trump for homeland security secretary; awaiting Senate confirmation.
• Rhoden’s role: A seasoned rancher and former legislator, Rhoden is poised to become governor.
• State focus: Lawmakers anticipate Rhoden’s leadership will prioritize local issues over national politics.
• Bipartisan respect: Rhoden is recognized for fostering relationships and building alliances.
• Future aspirations: Rhoden may run for a full gubernatorial term in 2026.

Deep Look

South Dakota Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden stands on the brink of taking over as governor following Gov. Kristi Noem’s nomination to serve as U.S. homeland security secretary under President-elect Donald Trump. Noem’s departure signals a shift in South Dakota’s leadership dynamics, as Rhoden prepares to bring a more grounded, state-focused approach to the role.

Kristi Noem’s Legacy and Departure

Gov. Kristi Noem rose to national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, positioning herself as a staunch conservative leader and a potential figure for higher office. Over her tenure, she cultivated a significant national profile, wrote two political memoirs, and became a fixture in Republican circles.

Her nomination as homeland security secretary reflects her growing stature in national politics. Noem expressed gratitude for the opportunity, writing on social media, “I am honored and humbled by this nomination and look forward to serving our country in this new capacity.”

Noem leaves behind a complex legacy, marked by bold stances on issues such as pandemic response, tax cuts, and transgender athlete participation in sports. However, her tenure also saw friction within the state’s Republican Party, with divides between establishment conservatives and the more hardline Freedom Caucus.

Larry Rhoden: The Next Governor

At 65, Larry Rhoden brings a different flavor of leadership to the governor’s office. A rancher and custom welder from western South Dakota, Rhoden’s roots are firmly planted in the state’s agricultural and rural identity. Known for his plain-spoken demeanor and pragmatic approach, Rhoden has been a fixture in South Dakota politics for over two decades.

Rhoden’s leadership experience is extensive, having served 16 years in the state Legislature, including as House majority leader. In her memoir, Noem credited Rhoden with mentoring her during her early days as a legislator, describing him as “direct and honest.”

Beyond his political achievements, Rhoden’s personal image resonates with South Dakota’s values. His official portrait on the governor’s website features him in a leather jacket and cowboy hat, symbolizing his authenticity and deep connection to the state.

“He’s legitimately legit,” said Republican state Rep. Greg Jamison, emphasizing that Rhoden embodies the qualities many associate with South Dakota.

Policy Continuity and Leadership Style

While Rhoden is expected to maintain the state’s conservative policy direction, lawmakers anticipate a noticeable shift in leadership style. Unlike Noem, who frequently engaged in national politics, Rhoden is expected to focus on state-specific issues and governance.

“This is a guy who was on the school board, then ran for the Legislature, rose through the ranks, and now will be governor,” Jamison said, highlighting Rhoden’s methodical rise in South Dakota politics.

Retiring state Sen. Lee Schoenbeck noted that Rhoden’s interests would remain firmly within South Dakota, quipping, “His interests will all be within the (state’s) 605 area code.”

Term-limited House Speaker Hugh Bartels echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Rhoden’s leadership style would differ from Noem’s. “Oh yeah, there will be differences in style,” Bartels said. “They’re just different people.”

Bipartisan Praise for Rhoden

Rhoden’s ability to foster relationships and work across the aisle has earned him praise from both Republicans and Democrats.

“Lieutenant-Governor Rhoden has demonstrated a willingness to collaborate,” said incoming House Minority Leader Erin Healy, a Sioux Falls Democrat. “I’m very optimistic that as governor he will foster an open, transparent dialogue with the Legislature.”

Republican state Rep. Tony Venhuizen also commended Rhoden’s strength in relationship-building, describing it as a cornerstone of his leadership.

Challenges Ahead

Despite his collaborative nature, Rhoden may face challenges within his own party. The Freedom Caucus, a group of hardline conservatives, has grown influential in South Dakota’s Legislature. Divisions between the caucus and establishment Republicans have surfaced over issues like tax policy, vaccine exemptions, and landowners’ rights.

Political science professor Michael Card warned that Rhoden could encounter resistance simply due to his association with Noem. “The Freedom Caucus probably would have wanted a pound of flesh if Noem had not been nominated for a Cabinet position,” Card said.

Rhoden’s Political Future

Looking beyond his initial tenure as governor, Rhoden is seen as a potential Republican candidate for a full gubernatorial term in 2026. Other likely contenders include U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and state Attorney General Marty Jackley.

For now, Rhoden is focused on the immediate transition and ensuring continuity in South Dakota’s governance.

South Dakota’s Shifting Political Landscape

South Dakota remains a Republican stronghold, with the party dominating state politics for nearly five decades. Noem’s appointment marks another milestone in the state’s political history, joining figures like George McGovern and Tom Daschle as South Dakotans who rose to national prominence.

While Rhoden’s leadership is expected to steer the state along a familiar conservative path, his emphasis on state-level priorities and collaborative governance may offer a refreshing contrast to Noem’s high-profile tenure.

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