[1] The current governor is Larry Rhoden, a member of the Republican Party who took office on January 25, 2025 upon Kristi Noem's resignation following her confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security by the United States Senate.

In 1978, Richard F. Kneip resigned from office 6 months before the expiration of his term to accept an appointment as United States ambassador to Singapore.

[11] On January 25, 2025, Kristi Noem resigned to become the United States Secretary of Homeland Security in the Cabinet of President Donald Trump.

Bill Janklow served briefly in the United States House of Representatives following his second stint as governor.

Of the 50 states, South Dakota currently holds the longest non-interrupted party control of the governorship.