The South Dakota gubernatorial primary runoff has reached a state of heightened tension, prompting South Dakota Right to Life (SDRTL) to intervene in the discourse to address what it characterizes as significant misinformation. Despite maintaining a policy of neutrality and refusing to issue formal endorsements for either candidate—a stance that includes withholding support even from its own Board of Directors Vice President, Jon Hansen—the organization felt compelled to publicly defend the record of Governor Larry Rhoden. This move follows a series of aggressive campaign tactics from challenger Toby Doeden, who has accused the incumbent of being beholden to pro-choice donors.
In an effort to provide clarity to voters, SDRTL released a direct rebuttal to Doeden’s allegations, stripping away political rhetoric to present what it terms “the facts” regarding Rhoden’s legislative and executive history. The organization emphasized that throughout his extensive career, Rhoden has maintained a perfect 100% voting record in alignment with their policies, acting as a primary sponsor for key anti-abortion legislation. The group underscored that Rhoden’s commitment to the cause did not waver once he ascended to higher office, citing his consistent role as a vocal anti-abortion advocate during his two terms as lieutenant governor.
The statement particularly highlighted Rhoden’s efforts during his time as governor, noting specific administrative actions taken to combat abortion-related services in the state. According to SDRTL, the Rhoden administration has actively challenged illegal abortion-pill operations and launched inquiries into abortion advertising campaigns that have targeted South Dakota women. Notably, the group pointed to the Governor’s request for Attorney General Marty Jackley to launch a formal investigation into abortion-pill advertisements that had appeared at various gas stations across the state, framing it as a decisive executive measure.
Beyond administrative enforcement, the organization credited Rhoden for maintaining institutional support for the movement within the executive branch. Specifically, SDRTL pointed to Rhoden’s decision to preserve the “Unborn Child Advocate” position within the Governor’s Office. By keeping this dedicated role operational at the highest level of state government, the organization argues that the Governor has ensured a continuous, formal presence for advocacy against abortion, even amidst the changing landscape of state politics and constitutional debates such as Amendment G.
The response from SDRTL underscores a strategic shift in how interest groups are navigating the current primary cycle. While the organization carefully noted that its bulleted list of facts should not be misconstrued as a formal endorsement of Rhoden’s candidacy, the substance of the defense serves as a powerful corrective to the narrative being pushed by the Doeden campaign. By omitting Doeden entirely from their social media messaging, SDRTL has effectively signaled that while they maintain official neutrality, they are unwilling to allow the incumbent’s record to be misrepresented in the public sphere.
This intervention mirrors broader trends in the Republican primary, where high-profile figures and influential organizations are increasingly forced to step in to verify candidate credentials against viral misinformation. While other surrogates, such as activist Leslee Unruh, have opted for direct endorsements in response to the runoff’s hostilities, SDRTL’s approach is notably distinct. By providing a concise, fact-based assessment rather than an emotional appeal, the organization has created a high-value piece of information—a document that political observers note could easily serve as a ready-made template for future campaign literature or video advertising.
