Karla Lems is a Republican State Representative for District 16 in South Dakota, representing Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties, including communities like Lennox, Canton, and Beresford. She has served since January 2023 and holds the position of Speaker pro tempore of the House since 2025. A small business owner, property manager, and farmer born and raised in South Dakota, she is married to Gaylon for 36 years, with three children and four grandchildren. She emphasizes conservative principles, individual liberties, economic opportunity, faith, freedom, and family values. In 2026, she is running for Lieutenant Governor alongside Jon Hansen.

Education and Political Experience

Education details are not publicly specified in available records. Her political experience includes grassroots involvement on the Lincoln County Republicans board, volunteer work with the South Dakota Family Policy Council, and service on boards for the Deinema Foundation, Special Olympics, Lifelight Communications, a Christian school, and a local drainage board. She serves on the House Committee on Legislative Procedure and sought re-election in District 16.