The latest episode of Dakota Town Hall brought together a panel of South Dakota political observers to break down the final days of the Republican gubernatorial primary, discuss campaign tactics and offer predictions ahead of Election Day.

Host Murdoc was joined by Dakota Scout co-founder Jonathan Ellis, Sioux Falls Live editor Patrick Lally, Dakota War College founder Pat Powers and South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry President and CEO Ryan Budmayr. The group examined some of the biggest stories shaping the race as voters prepare to cast their ballots.

Among the topics discussed was gubernatorial candidate Toby Doden’s use of images featuring other Republican officials in campaign mailers. The mail pieces prompted public responses from some of the individuals pictured, who clarified they had not endorsed Doden. Despite the criticism, several panelists suggested the controversy may have helped generate additional attention for the campaign.

“I think it’s pretty clever, frankly,” Ellis said of the strategy.

The panel also reviewed campaign advertising, with several participants praising the quality of Gov. Larry Rhoden’s television spots. Ellis called Rhoden’s introductory commercial “one of the best ads that I’ve seen in South Dakota political history.”

Artificial intelligence emerged as another major discussion point. Panelists noted the growing use of AI-generated graphics and content in campaigns across the state, describing the 2026 election cycle as the first in which the technology has become a significant factor in political messaging.

As the conversation turned to election forecasts, most panelists predicted U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson would finish near the top of the field, citing his statewide campaign organization and voter outreach efforts. Powers pointed to Johnson’s extensive volunteer network and campaign infrastructure as advantages heading into the final stretch.

The group also debated expected voter turnout, with estimates ranging from the low 30% range to around 40%. Several participants suggested turnout could play a decisive role not only in the governor’s race but also in a number of contested legislative primaries across South Dakota.

While predictions varied, the panel agreed the primary remains one of the most closely watched Republican contests in recent South Dakota history, with the possibility of a runoff still very much in play as Election Day approaches.