South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden did not deviate greatly from Noem's executive agenda, but there are early differences between the administrations.

Governor Rhoden grew up as a rancher in Meade County and served in the South Dakota National Guard from 1978 to 1985. He has stated that said experience has prepared him to tackle the most pressing issue that South Dakotans face. Republican State Senator Helene Duhamel of district 32 in Rapid City gave her remarks while congratulating Rhoden.

Just one day after being sworn in as the 34th South Dakota Governor, Larry Rhoden addressed the joint legislative session in Pierre Tuesday afternoon to share his plans for his term. Rhoden began his speech by thanking Kristi Noem for her 18 years of service to South Dakota.

Gov. Larry Rhoden said he chose Tony Venhuizen as lieutenant governor for his knowledge of the Legislature and experience in the executive branch.

Rhoden emphasized that his leadership will focus on keeping South Dakota "strong, safe, and free." While not presenting a separate budget, he acknowledged concerns regarding certain aspects of the proposed budget and expressed intent to address those issues collaboratively.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden delivered his first joint address to the South Dakota Legislature as governor on Tuesday. His full speech is here:

Larry Rhoden now. Rhoden, previously the lieutenant governor of South Dakota under former Gov. Kristi Noem, officially succeeded to governor of South Dakota during a private swearing-in ceremony Monday.