Republican Speaker of the House Jon Hansen said he’s running for governor on a wave of grassroots momentum.
After much speculation, Hansen made the announcement official Thursday night in Sioux Falls.
"I really feel like this is the right time for the pole of this state, and the grassroots, to finally get their government back," Hansen told the press after his announcement. "We’ve seen the wave of grassroots momentum continue to build and build and we think it’s just going to continue to build into the next election."
During his tenure in the statehouse, Hansen has sponsored several bills that change the ballot question petition process. In 2020, he also brought a bill to prohibit commercial surrogacy, which failed.
Recently, Hansen has supported efforts against liquid carbon dioxide pipeline projects and a proposed men’s prison near Sioux Falls.
Hansen said he’s the right person to defend the rights and liberties of South Dakotans.
“Every day, I get up and ask the Lord, ‘Lord, what is it that you want me to do? Help me to know and do your will.’" Hansen said. "Many, many times he’s called me to action in defense of our people. So, this is just another instance of that."
Prior to his position as Speaker of the House, Hansen chaired the House Judiciary Committee for four years. He was also a member of a House panel that recommended against impeaching Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg.
Hansen’s running mate is Karla Lems, R-Canton, who successfully passed a bill prohibiting eminent domain for liquid carbon pipelines.
Current Governor Larry Rhoden, Congressman Dusty Johnson and Attorney General Marty Jackley are rumored to also be exploring a bid for the office.
The primary election is not until June next year.
