Jon Hansen is Speaker of the South Dakota House of Representatives (2025-present) and a state representative from Dell Rapids representing the 25th district. A 39-year-old lawyer and conservative activist, Hansen emerged as a leading figure in the populist wing of the South Dakota GOP through his leadership on religious liberty protections, property rights, and opposition to abortion. He officially announced his gubernatorial candidacy on April 24, 2025, and is running with state Rep. Karla Lems as his lieutenant governor running mate. Hansen appeals to the conservative grassroots base with strong pro-life, pro-gun, and anti-government-overreach messaging.
Jon Hansen, 39, is from Dell Rapids, South Dakota, and has been a state representative since 2011 (with break 2013-2019), currently serving as Speaker of the House. He holds a bachelor's degree in business management from University of Sioux Falls and a J.D. from University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law (2016). Married to Sheila with six young children. Deeply religious and emphasizes faith, family, and freedom as core values. Emerged as major political force through leadership on property rights and life issues.