South Dakota Election Results 2024: Kristi Noem Wins Re-election

Incumbent Governor Cruises to Victory Amidst Low Voter Turnout

November 9, 2024 - Pierre, SD - Incumbent Republican Governor Kristi Noem has secured a second term in office, defeating Democratic challenger Jamie Smith by a comfortable margin. With 95% of precincts reporting, Noem has garnered 62% of the vote to Smith's 38%. Noem's victory marks the continuation of Republican dominance in South Dakota, which has not elected a Democratic governor since 1978.

Noem's victory can be attributed to her strong conservative credentials and her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Noem has been a vocal critic of COVID-19 restrictions, refusing to implement statewide mask mandates or lockdowns. Her stance has resonated with many South Dakota voters, who view her as a champion of individual liberty.

Smith, a former state legislator, ran on a platform of economic populism and healthcare reform. He argued that Noem's policies have benefited the wealthy at the expense of the working class. However, Smith's message failed to gain traction with voters, who were more concerned with the economy and COVID-19.

Low Voter Turnout Dampens Enthusiasm

Voter turnout in the 2024 South Dakota gubernatorial election was low, with only 45% of registered voters casting ballots. This represents a significant decline from the 2018 election, in which 63% of registered voters participated.

The low turnout is likely due to a combination of factors, including the lack of competitive races on the ballot and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many voters may have also been discouraged by the perception that the election's outcome was a foregone conclusion.

Despite the low turnout, Noem's victory is a clear indication of her popularity among South Dakota voters. She will now face the challenge of uniting a state that is deeply divided along political lines.