South Dakota News Watch is reporting this AM that Congressman Dusty Johnson is currently surging in the race for Governor, while the man who had been his chief competitor has taken a tumble in polling conducted from April 7-11.

The scientific survey of 500 registered Republicans, conducted April 7-11 by Mason-Dixon Polling and Strategy, found Johnson leading the four-way contest for governor with 34% of likely GOP primary voters supporting his candidacy.

The other three candidates are effectively tied for second due to the margin of error being plus-or-minus 4.5%. State House Speaker Jon Hansen, of Dell Rapids, has 18% support from GOP voters, and Aberdeen businessman Toby Doeden and Gov. Larry Rhoden both have 17%. Roughly 14% of those surveyed were undecided.

and..

“Johnson is moving into the clear front-runner status,” he said.

“People know him. People like him, and that’s probably why he’s ahead right now. Whether he can hold on to that will depend on what the other campaigns – particularly Hansen’s – are able to do in the coming weeks,” Coker told News Watch, pointing to the poll results that found Johnson has a 47% favorability rating, the highest of any of the candidates.

Read the entire story here.

That’s a massive shift of support against Governor Rhoden, who had been in a relatively close second place this last year when they last polled, with him shedding 10 points since that time.  At this point, Dusty Johnson is in the lead, with the rest of the field virtually tied.   (I heard all of them were at 17, and they’re getting Hansen to 18 by rounding up. I heard Doeden 17.4%, Hansen 17.8%, and Rhoden 17.0%)

While we’ve all been watching the Toby Doeden ads, making us insensitive to the deluge of negativity he’s running on, they’ve somewhat faded into the background and are ignored at this point as he attacks Dusty Johnson and Larry Rhoden, (and ignoring 2% Jon Hansen).

But this morning, while watching the news, gears have shifted and I saw the first negative ad directly against Larry Rhoden which went after him. I didn’t get a chance to record it, but I did grab a couple of screen shots with my phone:

The group promoting this effort is the “Rushmore Principles” Political Action Committee, so we’ll have to wait a few weeks until the pre-primary report to find out who is behind it.

But it pulls no punches, and goes straight after Governor Rhoden hard for the shift of sales taxes to offset property taxes that was passed this last legislative session.

Stay tuned. I’m sure things will get rougher before the election is done.

 

UPDATE: 

This is not a tiny ad buy.  Looking like 250k or so?

Rushmore Principles Buy by Pat Powers

Democrats Want to Bring Back Open Borders, Republicans Won’t Let Them
By Sen. John Thune

Democrats have made it clear that they are the party of open borders and defunding law enforcement. They kept the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shut down for nearly two months, repeatedly moved the goalposts on negotiations to fund the agency, and ultimately walked away from bipartisan talks. Then, just before Easter, every Democrat in the Senate showed their true colors by refusing to fund the law enforcement and border security components of DHS.

Needless to say, Democrats’ extreme position is unacceptable for Republicans, and I would think for most Americans too. So while Democrats embrace open borders and defunding law enforcement, the Republican majority will move ahead to fund these critical agencies without their support through the budget reconciliation process.

It is shameful what Democrats have done to Homeland Security. Since October, Democrats have subjected this department to not one but two record-breaking shutdowns, forcing some department employees to go without pay for extended periods of time. Republicans tried to work with Democrats; we tried to negotiate with them on reforms to immigration enforcement that they said that they wanted. But time and again, Democrats blocked our attempts, moved the goalposts in bipartisan negotiations, and eventually just walked away.

But that won’t be the end of the story. First, thanks to our foresight in the Working Families Tax Cuts bill, immigration enforcement and border security are funded through the end of this fiscal year. Now that it’s clear that we can’t trust Democrats to fund law enforcement, Republicans are going to take up a bill through budget reconciliation that will allow us to fund these missions through the remainder of the Trump administration without Democrats.

Democrats have once again shown their embrace of open borders and defunding law enforcement. They refuse to fund the deportation of criminal illegal aliens. They refuse to fund drug interdiction and border security. They refuse to fund the agency that investigates drug smugglers and human traffickers. And they refuse to fund Border Patrol. Apparently, the Biden administration’s four years of record-breaking illegal immigration weren’t enough for Democrats. Based on their present position, they’re perfectly willing to allow the border crisis of the last administration to return. Republicans won’t let that happen.

It’s mindboggling, but Democrats don’t really believe in securing our borders and enforcing our immigration laws. It’s now clear that Democrats were never interested in a solution, they were just interested in a political talking point. But I don’t think “defund law enforcement” is a winning message for my Democrat colleagues.

Republicans are in complete agreement that we need to ensure law enforcement and border security are fully funded, and we’re going to ensure that they are funded quickly and completely to keep our border secure and America safe.

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Freedom Drives Opportunity
By: Gov. Larry Rhoden
April 17, 2026

In South Dakota, we believe in protecting our freedom, defending our constitutional rights, and putting common sense policies into action. That’s a big reason why South Dakota remains strong, safe, and free. But one right exists to protect all other rights – and that’s the Second Amendment.

We have the results to prove that South Dakota is the most pro-Second Amendment state in America.

Last year on my Open for Opportunity tour, I had the chance to visit Western Dakota Technical College. When I met with President Ericson, she shared the opportunity to bring a gunsmithing program to South Dakota. I went back to the office and immediately got to work to make it happen.

South Dakota is home to many growing and thriving firearm businesses, and in the last few years, we’ve brought even more of them here. That didn’t happen by accident. While other states were taking away Second Amendment rights, South Dakota said, “Not here.” We chose a different path. We chose to stand up for our freedoms and welcome these businesses with open arms.

Finally, this week, I was proud to announce a $4 million Future Fund grant to bring the gunsmithing program to Western Dakota Tech. We helped them purchase equipment and curriculum and acquire the gunsmithing school in Colorado.

Ryan Lishner, the president of the Colorado school, said gun policies in Colorado are starting to impede what firearms dealers and firearms manufacturers can do, and it’s impacting their educational process.

That won’t happen in South Dakota. This is the freest state in a nation founded on the principle of freedom – and other states are taking notice.

We’re proud to be the most Second Amendment-friendly state in the nation. We don’t just say that – we back it up. I’ve fought for the Second Amendment my entire career. This year, we became the first state to remove silencers from the list of controlled weapons. In fact, other states have already followed our example!

The very first bill that we signed during the Noem-Rhoden Administration was Constitutional Carry to guarantee the Second Amendment rights of every law-abiding South Dakotan. We became the first state to eliminate fees for concealed carry permits. And our leadership in this area goes back decades. In fact, when I was in the Legislature, I was the prime sponsor of a bill to eliminate the 48-hour waiting period to purchase a pistol, among other strong pro-2A laws.

The Second Amendment exists to protect all other rights, so my administration will always protect it. And we will welcome with open arms those who will help us advance the Second Amendment.

This new gunsmithing school is a win for our students, our workforce, our businesses, and our firearms industry. We aren’t putting up roadblocks; we’re opening doors. We’re keeping our young folks here at home and helping our businesses find the skilled workers they need. We’re proving that South Dakota is Open for Opportunity – and we’re keeping it the most pro-Second Amendment state in America.

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Families First
By Rep. Dusty Johnson
April 17, 2026

BIG Update

Earlier this week, I met with police chiefs and sheriffs from across South Dakota to talk about public safety. Our law enforcement officers are on the front lines protecting our state. Because they understand better than anyone what support our communities need, I keep in touch with them regularly.

They shared several challenges facing South Dakota law enforcement, including the devastation caused by drug addiction and the importance of keeping dangerous substances, like drugs and illegal Chinese vapes, out of kids’ hands.

I’ve supported numerous bills that strengthen law enforcement and help officers do their jobs. I’ve also worked to stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States as this dangerous drug continues to end precious lives.

Johnson speaks with South Dakota sheriffs and police chiefs

BIG Idea

U.S. sales of E15 hit a record high in 2025, saving drivers at least 25 cents per gallon when they fill up with E15 instead of E10. I’m continuing to advocate for the permanent sale of year-round E15 to ensure more drivers have this option at the pump.

I recently met with POET and Growth Energy to discuss how year-round E15 sales would positively impact South Dakota’s economy and corn producers. I’m hopeful the Rural Domestic Energy Council, that I am a member of, will get a deal across the finish line soon to allow the year-round sale of E15. 

Johnson speaks with POET employees in Sioux Falls

BIG News

The Working Families Tax Cuts benefited more than 53 million Americans this tax season. Many families saw bigger tax refunds – up nearly 11% from the last tax filing season. In South Dakota, the average taxpayer will see a tax cut of $3,638 this tax season.

More than 25 million filers claimed the No Tax on Overtime provision with an average deduction of more than $3,100. More than 6 million filers saw an average deduction of more than $7,100 by claiming the No Tax on Tips provision. And more than 30 million seniors claimed the Enhanced Deduction for Seniors, with an average deduction of more than $7,500.

I’ve worked hard to bring tax relief to South Dakota to protect jobs and keep more money in your pocket. I’ll keep fighting to keep your taxes low.

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Johnson Testifies in Support of His Western South Dakota Rural Water Bill

 Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Natural Resources held a hearing on U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson’s (R-S.D.) bill to conduct a feasibility study on supplying Missouri River water to the Western Dakota Regional Water System (WDRWS).

“It’s hard to overstate the importance of water,” said Johnson. “If we want a vibrant and healthy West River, we have to have the Western Dakota Regional Water System project, and I’m proud to support this important step forward.”

Click here or the image above for Johnson’s remarks

“Western Dakota Regional Water System has completed five years of foundational work, including demand projections, intake evaluations, and regional system planning. The State of South Dakota has invested more than $12 million, alongside strong local support from our 49 members. The project is ready for the next step: a Bureau of Reclamation feasibility study,” said Kristin Conzet, Executive Director of WDRWS. “We are grateful to Rep. Johnson and his team for their professionalism and assistance throughout the federal process.”

As western South Dakota grows, the demand for water continues to increase. WDRWS seeks to meet that growing demand. The Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act allocates $10 million to the Bureau of Reclamation to carry out a feasibility study for a proposed rural water supply project that would deliver municipal, rural, and industrial water from the Missouri River to western South Dakota. The purpose of a feasibility study is to ensure that a water resources project is technically, environmentally, and economically sound.

Click here for bill text.

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Senator Randy Deibert Announces Re-Election Bid for South Dakota Senate, District 31

Spearfish, SD-Senator Randy Deibert today announced his candidacy for re-election to the South Dakota State Senate representing District 31 and the people of Lawrence County.

“I am deeply honored to represent District 31,” said Deibert. “I respectfully ask for your support for another term so I can continue working on behalf of the people of Lawrence County and the Black Hills.”

First elected in 2022, Deibert has established a strong legislative record and leadership presence in Pierre. He has served as Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and Retirement Laws Committee, as well as Vice Chair of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. In addition, he has contributed to key legislative efforts through his work on the State Affairs, Commerce and Energy, Procedure and Local Government Committees.

In 2025, Deibert was elected Senate Majority Whip and to the Legislative Executive Board, further strengthening his role in shaping state policy.

Throughout his tenure, Deibert has been actively engaged in addressing property tax issues, serving on multiple summer study committees, including roles as co-chair and vice chair. His legislative accomplishments include prime sponsorship of bills focused on forest management, local government authority, Deadwood gaming revenue, gold severance tax, landowner easement rights, education facility improvements, and protections for law enforcement, judges, and firefighters.

During his time in office, Deibert has successfully passed more than 18 pieces of legislation and played a role in delivering the largest property tax cut in South Dakota history.

A consistent advocate for West River priorities, Deibert has championed local control, historic preservation, responsible forest management, multiple use of public lands, sustainable mining, and economic development.

“District 31 deserves a strong and effective voice in the State Capitol,” Deibert said. “Equally important is staying connected at home. I remain committed to being accessible, engaged, and responsive to the people I serve.”

A lifelong resident of Spearfish, Deibert is a Professional Land Surveyor with deep roots in the Black Hills community. He remains actively involved in local and regional efforts, including city and county meetings, planning initiatives, and service on boards such as the Lawrence County Natural Resource Committee and the South Dakota Public Safety Communications Council. He also supports organizations such as the Homestake Opera House and local Spearfish Veterans Monument.

Absentee voting begins April 17, 2026, as ballots become available. The Republican Primary Election will be held June 2, 2026.

This is starting to make the rounds. And you could see this coming from a mile away.

From the reports I’m hearing, the balloting process is hitting a nightmare stage in some counties.  Someone remarked to me that in one county, they had in the neighborhood of 150 different ballots they have to wrangle.

I’ve posted about this a few times, and it may blow up the system on the first outing.

There was a solution provided during the legislative session. Except, it involved a machine, so it was doomed to failure in this environment populated with luddites:

Brown County Auditor Lynn Heupel said the change would be beneficial for both voters and election workers.

“With the ballot on demand, what would happen is they pull that voter up and select that voter, it would automatically print their ballot for them so there wouldn’t be any possible confusion of picking the wrong ballot for the voter,” Heupel told KELOLAND News Tuesday.

Read that here.

As I wrote back in January, the changes in South Dakota Law have made a challenging situation for elections officials at the school, municipal, and county levels even more difficult with the addition of more races in counties. School district boundaries and city maps don’t always match up with county lines. And breaking it down even further are different ballots needed for Independents, Republicans and Democrats within the June primary.

Now, we’re going to find out in practical terms what the 2025 change in law did to over-complicate our election system.  (Somehow, I think we’re going to see the balloting-on-demand system make a return visit next session.)

Gov. Rhoden Announces New Gunsmithing Program at Western Dakota Tech

 RAPID CITY, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced the addition of a new gunsmithing curriculum to Western Dakota Technical College, advancing South Dakota’s pro-2nd Amendment values and expanding the workforce for South Dakota’s defense and firearms industries.

“South Dakota is the most Second Amendment-friendly state in America, and our firearms industry is thriving,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “As other states infringe on the 2nd Amendment rights of their citizens and chase away firearms producers, South Dakota is welcoming them with open arms. This new gunsmithing program will support our growing firearms industry and attract even more guns and ammunition manufacturers to South Dakota!”

Governor Rhoden is awarding $4 million from the Future Fund to Western Dakota Technical College to support the purchase of equipment and related assets and ultimately acquire an accredited gunsmithing school in Colorado. The program will expand hands-on training and help meet workforce needs across South Dakota’s defense and firearms industries. Graduates of the current program find careers with law enforcement, military agencies, and firearm manufacturers.

“Western Dakota Technical College is committed to providing training and education that meets the needs of our industries and South Dakota students,” said Kendra Ericson, president of Western Dakota Technical College. “This allows us to expand our programs and prepare students for high-demand careers while supporting continued industry growth.”

The announcement was attended by several firearms companies headquartered in South Dakota – many of which moved here from states infringing on the 2nd Amendment rights of their citizens. Attendees also included leadership from Western Dakota Technical College, the Board of Technical Education, Rapid City Government, Elevate Rapid City, Pete Lien and Sons Shooting Sports Complex.

This announcement builds upon Governor Rhoden’s announcement last week of a new South Dakota Defense Institute in Rapid City. The new gunsmithing program at Western Dakota Tech will support South Dakota’s growing defense industry.

“When I met with Dr. Ericson on my Open for Opportunity Tour visit last year, we discussed this possibility. I went back to the office and got to work to make it happen,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “We are here today to celebrate the results of that meeting, and another win for our students, our workforce, our businesses, and our firearms industry.”

Western Dakota Technical College is expected to accept their first class into the program in the fall of 2027.

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After attempting to boot Attorney General Marty Jackley from the congressional ballot (unsuccessfully, I might add), Congressional d-list candidate James Bialota should probably start focusing on his own paperwork in the Congressional race. Because it would not appear that he’s filed any yet, at least according to the Federal Elections Commission and the House of Representatives.

According to the FEC, as of the end of January, Bialota claimed to have neither raised nor spent $5000 in the race for Congress.

And as far as the financial disclosure paperwork required of congressional candidates, that paperwork is also a great sucking void of information as well, despite a new due date having come and gone since February 5, according to the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

James is kind of running out of space to actually disclose anything in the 48 days before the primary election is scheduled to happen.

Rules for thee…