South Dakota Election Results: June 2024
Incumbent Kristi Noem Wins Republican Primary, Will Face Jamie Smith in November
Incumbent Kristi Noem has won the Republican primary in South Dakota, securing her party’s nomination for governor in the November general election. Noem defeated challenger Steve Haugaard by a wide margin, taking 70% of the vote. She will now face Democratic nominee Jamie Smith, who won his primary with 65% of the vote.
Noem Focuses on Conservative Values, Smith on Education and Healthcare
Noem’s campaign focused on conservative values, including support for gun rights, lower taxes, and limited government. She also highlighted her record as governor, citing her efforts to cut taxes, reduce regulations, and improve the state’s economy. Smith, on the other hand, campaigned on a platform of improving education and healthcare in South Dakota. He pledged to increase funding for public schools, expand access to affordable healthcare, and address the state’s teacher shortage.
Race Expected to Be Close
The general election race between Noem and Smith is expected to be close. Noem is a popular figure in South Dakota and has the support of the Republican establishment. However, Smith is a well-known and respected figure in the state, and his campaign has gained momentum in recent weeks. The outcome of the race could hinge on voter turnout and the issues that resonate most with voters.
Key Issues in the Race
- Education: Smith has made education a top priority, pledging to increase funding for public schools and address the state’s teacher shortage. Noem has also expressed support for education, but has focused more on other issues such as tax cuts and economic development.
- Healthcare: Smith has pledged to expand access to affordable healthcare and address the rising cost of prescription drugs. Noem has also expressed support for affordable healthcare, but has not released specific plans on how she would achieve this.
- Taxes: Noem has made tax cuts a cornerstone of her campaign, pledging to further reduce taxes on businesses and individuals. Smith has also expressed support for tax cuts, but has focused more on targeted tax breaks for working families and small businesses.
- Abortion: Noem is a strong supporter of abortion restrictions and has signed several bills into law that limit access to abortion in South Dakota. Smith, on the other hand, supports abortion rights and has pledged to veto any legislation that further restricts abortion access.
Conclusion
The South Dakota gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a close and competitive contest. Both Noem and Smith are well-known and respected figures in the state, and the outcome of the race could hinge on voter turnout and the issues that resonate most with voters.
