Rhoden Keeps Venhuizen as Running Mate for 2026 South Dakota Governor’s Race

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - Governor Larry Rhoden has formally filed paperwork to keep Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen on the ticket as his running mate in the 2026 general election, solidifying a partnership that has been in place since the administration began.

“Tony and I have been a team since day one – his status as my running mate has never been in question,” Rhoden said in Thursday’s announcement. “We’ve accomplished a tremendous amount in our first 18 months in office, and Tony gets much of the credit for many of our biggest accomplishments. Now that we’ve officially secured the nomination, the time is appropriate to jump through the hoops so that he can remain South Dakota’s Lieutenant Governor.”

Venhuizen has served as South Dakota’s 40th lieutenant governor since January 2025, when Rhoden appointed him and both chambers of the Legislature unanimously confirmed the choice. He previously represented District 13 in the South Dakota House of Representatives, where he served as vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee.

“It is an honor to officially join Governor Rhoden’s ticket,” Venhuizen said. “We have a great team, and I am excited to continue to work for conservative, responsible government on behalf of the people of South Dakota.”

The filing follows Rhoden’s historic runoff victory, which secured him the Republican nomination for governor.

Venhuizen has played a central role in several major initiatives for the administration, chairing the prison task force, the GRIT task force, and the Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force. His background also includes service on the South Dakota Board of Regents and time as chief of staff to former Governors Dennis Daugaard and Kristi Noem.

Venhuizen and his wife, Sara, have been married for more than 20 years and have three school‑age children. The family lives in Sioux Falls and attends Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

The general election is set for November 3, 2026. Officials encourage voters to confirm election information through trusted state and local sources.

More details on the Rhoden‑Venhuizen Administration’s priorities and initiatives can be found at RhodenResults.com.

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