Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) could face a strong primary challenger in the 2026 midterm elections from his home state’s attorney general. South Dakota’s at-large congressional seat has been held by Johnson since 2019.

After years in Washington, Johnson says it’s time to come home and lead, emphasizing family support, public service and a “mission-driven” vision for the state

GOP Rep. Dusty Johnson entered the race Monday for South Dakota governor, as Gov. Larry Rhoden (R) has yet to announce whether he will run for reelection. “South Dakota is a special place where hard work, conservative common sense and firm handshakes are a way of life,” Johnson says in an ad posted on YouTube.

The announcement confirms what many throughout the state have expected for months, if not years. He joins a growing field in the Republican primary slated for June of 2026.