A South Dakota businessman is launching a campaign for governor by pledging to eliminate the state’s property taxes.
Sioux Falls Live reports Toby Doeden is seeking the Republican nomination in the 2026 race. In addition to ending the state’s property taxes, is also proposing the launch of a new “South Dakota Department of External Revenue” to identify alternative revenue sources.
“As governor, I will fight to eliminate property taxes so that each and every resident — regardless of class, color, creed or profession — can truly own their home and their land once and for all,” said Doeden in announcing his bid.
Doeden is the owner of two auto dealerships, other retail businesses and real estate, and he is also the founder of the political action committee Dakota First Action. The current governor, Larry Rhoden, was previously lieutenant governor and is completing the term of Kristi Noem, who resigned earlier this year to become President Trump’s Secretary of Homeland Security. Rhoden has not announced if he run next year, while state House Speaker Jon Hansen has announced his candidacy.
Doeden also called for the creations of a “South Dakota Department of Government Efficiency” to audit state agencies, and he called for a reform of the public education system. He is echoing President Trump’s focus on fighting crime and illegal immigration, stating, “Any elected official who suggests defunding the police will forfeit their right to hold office.”
You can end property tax. But that means you have to create or increase existing sales and/or income tax. The money has to come from somewhere. Unless police officers and firefighters are willing to work for free. And residents are willing to drive to the local landfill to dump their trash.