Recent polling momentum has elevated businessman Toby Doeden to the front of South Dakota’s June 2 Republican primary for governor, where he leads with substantial self-funding that has increased his visibility among likely voters. Incumbent Larry Rhoden, who ascended to the office in 2025 after Kristi Noem’s resignation, trails alongside U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson and House Speaker Jon Hansen, each drawing on established records in Congress, state leadership, or prior statewide roles. Multiple May surveys showed Doeden ahead or within the margin of error of Johnson, reflecting shifts in candidate positioning and campaign resources ahead of the vote that determines the Republican nominee for the November general election.