Republicans near sweep of statewide offices

By: John Hult - November 8, 2022 9:59 pm

South Dakotans have backed Republicans for every statewide, state-level office so far, with Gov. Kristi Noem holding a lead over challenger Jamie Smith.

The following candidates had given victory speeches as of 9:45 p.m. CST:

Newly elected Secretary of State Monae Johnson,
Newly elected Commissioner of School and Public Lands Brock Greenfield,
Incumbent State Treasurer Josh Haeder,
Incumbent Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson, and,
Returning Attorney General Marty Jackley, who ran unopposed for a position he vacated in 2018 to run for governor.

Nelson was among the candidates touting South Dakota’s “red wave” of Republican victories before throwing a jab at his Democratic opponent, Minnehaha County Commissioner Jeff Barth.

“To my very worthy opponent, Jeff Barth, who is a chess player – checkmate,” Nelson said.

South Dakota Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight)

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John Hult

John is the senior reporter for South Dakota Searchlight. He has more than 15 years experience covering criminal justice, the environment and public affairs in South Dakota, including more than a decade at the Sioux Falls Argus Leader.