SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(KELO)- It will take several days before we know, but Congressman Dusty Johnson’s run for re-election may be about to become a three-way race.

Justin McNeal filed petitions to appear on the ballot as an Independent Tuesday.

More petitions are on the way to the Secretary of State’s office via mail.

McNeal says he believes he’ll have enough signatures to make the ballot…but not without a challenge from the state republican party.

That effort generated threats from GOP Chair John Wiik to strip party credentials from republicans who circulated petitions on his behalf.

Even if enough signatures are certified to place him on the ballot, McNeal expects further challenges from Johnson’s campaign and the state republican party.

Some Republican party officials are concerned McNeal’s campaign will open the door for Democratic candidate Sheryl Johnson to take the race.