Runoff turnout affected by motivation, polling, lack of ‘second choice’ enthusiasm, professor says

By: Makenzie Huber

Outlets: South Dakota Searchlight

Published: July 29, 2026

Words: 721

Last Updated: 4 days, 21 hours ago

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Turnout among Republicans in Tuesday’s runoff election fell by about 20,000 voters compared to the June primary — a drop that a University of South Dakota political science professor said was predictable.

Participation fell from 43% in June to 36% Tuesday, driven by low motivation, polling that made the race look like a foregone conclusion and other factors, according to Julia Hellwege.

“It’s about what I’d expect,” she said.

Toby Doeden and Gov. Larry Rhoden …

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