SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - For the first time in four decades, Republican leaders in South Dakota will elect a state chairperson from a contested race.
GOP leadership will gather tomorrow in Pierre and chose between current State Chair Pam Roberts and challenger, former Union County State Senator, Dan Lederman for the future of the state party.
During yesterday's weekly press conference, Governor Dennis Daugaard endorsed Roberts.
Lederman has the backing of the state's National Committeeman and Committewoman, postions considered to be second only to the State Party Chair.
Some pundits suggests the challenge points to an increasingly divided GOP in South Dakota. Typically, the governor has held sway over who sits at the helm of the party. Approval was generally considered a foregone conclusion.
Lederman announced his candidacy after Roberts hinted that she would not likely seek another term as State Chair.
Governor Daugaard say he did some "arm twisting" to convince Roberts to seek another term. He told reporters yesterday at the Capitol that Roberts is the "best person for the job and she has my 100% support regardless of who else is running."
Saturday's committee meeting is in Pierre.