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Bill

Bill

HB 1164

revise the process for nominating candidates for lieutenant governor.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Randy Deibert and 3 co-sponsors

South Dakota revises its lieutenant governor nomination process, affecting how candidates are selected within the state's political system.

Signed by the Governor on 2025-03-31 H.J. 553
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Bill Summary · HB 1164

Legislative bill overview

HB 1164 revises South Dakota's process for nominating lieutenant governor candidates, changing how they are selected within the state's political system. The bill was introduced by four legislators and passed both chambers before being signed into law in March 2025. The specific mechanics of the nomination process change are not detailed in the available legislative actions.

Why is this important

Lieutenant governor races significantly affect state governance, as the lieutenant governor becomes governor if the sitting governor dies, resigns, or is removed from office. Nomination process changes can influence which candidates gain party support and ultimately who holds this critical line-of-succession position. This procedural change may affect candidate diversity, campaign dynamics, or party control over the selection process.

Potential points of contention

  • Party autonomy vs. grassroots input: Changes to nomination processes often spark debate over whether party leadership should have centralized control or whether the process should be more open to rank-and-file party members
  • Ticket unity concerns: The new process may affect whether gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial candidates are selected together or independently, impacting running-mate compatibility
  • Incumbent advantage: Procedural changes can inadvertently benefit sitting officeholders or disadvantage challengers depending on how the nomination timing and mechanism are restructured

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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