South Dakota Legislature heavily tilted toward Republican lawmakers
November 10, 2022
PIERRE, S.D.–The makeup of South Dakota’s deeply red legislature didn’t change much Tuesday night, although some races could see a recount.
The 70-member House of Representatives will be made up of 63 Republicans and just seven Democrats.
In the 35-member Senate, Republicans will have 31 seats, and Democrats four.
That means the overall makeup of the 105 members Legislature will be 94 Republicans and 11 Democrats.
A handful of races have the potential for a recount, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.
Democrats Linda Duba and Kadyn Wittman both pulled off wins in District 15. But Wittman and Republican Joni Tschetter both received 25% of the vote – with only 97 more votes to Wittman.
District 18 Republican Julie Auch is currently tallied at 4,663 votes – with would-be incumbent Democrat Ryan Cwach behind at 4,508 votes.
Additionally, Incumbent Democrat Representative Oren Lesmeister in District 28A, has a 43 vote lead over challenger Republican Ralph Lyon. Lesmeister has a seat on the House Agriculture Committee.
Candidates requesting a recount must submit a petition to their county auditor within three days following the state canvass. That’s scheduled to convene November 15. Upon the filing of a petition, recounts must be completed within 14 days.
