SD GOP chair says party will stay out of Primary process

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- It looks like South Dakota republicans could see primary candidates for Governor, US Senate and Congress on next June’s election ballot.

GOP Party Chairman Dan Lederman says the party stays out of those races.

Audio Player

Governor Kristi Noem is facing a challenge from Representative Steven Haugaard of Sioux Falls.

Lederman says despite the Governor being the nominal head of the party, the organization will stay on the sidelines.

Audio Player

Lederman says primaries will help the republican winners into the general election.

Audio Player

While Senator John Thune and Congressman Dusty Johnson have not officially announced their plans for next year, it’s expected that both will run for reelection.