Bill to require primaries for statewide offices radically changed in SD House

A bill originally designed to select statewide candidates for the major political parties via primary was completely changed on the House floor. It now allows gubernatorial candidates to choose their running mate. All other provisions were removed.

The Lt. Governor and other constitutional offices — Attorney General, Secretary of State and others are currently chosen by delegates at party conventions.

The House passed the amended measure 48-21 Thursday.

Unlike previous heated debates among Republicans who supported the change to a primary system and those who preferred the current convention system, yesterday’s discussion was muted and short.

The original bill’s sponsor, Republican Representative Roger Chase of Huron, agrees with the change…

The bill returns to the Senate for its concurrence or rejection of the compromise.

March 3, 2023