Gov. Larry Rhoden said he chose Tony Venhuizen as lieutenant governor for his knowledge of the Legislature and experience in the executive branch.

Governor Rhoden grew up as a rancher in Meade County and served in the South Dakota National Guard from 1978 to 1985. He has stated that said experience has prepared him to tackle the most pressing issue that South Dakotans face. Republican State Senator Helene Duhamel of district 32 in Rapid City gave her remarks while congratulating Rhoden.

Following Governor Kristi Noem’s appointment to Secretary of Homeland Security, Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden succeeded to governor of South Dakota. Rhoden received Noem’s resignation as governor and succeeded immediately following the vote by the United States Senate.