By ,
Published December 23, 2015
Race to Watch:
Republican Gubernatorial Primary -- Dennis Daugaard vs. Dave Knudson vs. Ken Knuppe vs. Scott Munsterman vs. Gordon Howie
Five Republicans are jockeying for position in the primary race to replace term-limited Gov. Mike Rounds.
Democratic candidate state Sen. Scott Heidepriem does not face a primary challenge -- but in a state where a Democrat has not been elected governor since 1974, all eyes are on the Republican field.
Two candidates appear to have risen above the mix. Lt. Gov. Dennis Daugaard has the fundraising lead over his opponents and has been polling well against Heidepriem in general election match-ups. But state Senate Majority Leader Dave Knudson has been picking up steam. A recent poll showed Knudson trouncing Heidepriem in a general election.
Other Races:
At-Large Congressional Republican Primary -- Blake Curd vs. Chris Nelson vs. Kristi Noem
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/south-dakota-republicans-scramble-to-compete-for-open-governor-seat