PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden survived a challenge at the state republican convention in June from Representative Steven Haugaard of Sioux Falls by a fifty-six to forty four percent margin. He says he expects full republican support into the election.

Rhoden filled in for Governor Kristi Noem at several campaign events, and says they are focused on the race.

Rhoden says the convention race was not unusual.

The Governor had recent back surgery and was taking time to recover.