CQ/NY Times speculate on Johnson race
Read the entire story here. One problem I have with the story is that Dave's view of the Senatorial field and mine differ. I think there are several other credible Republicans who could also give the race a good shot.Given Johnson’s long recovery and his uncertain political status, Republicans are finding it uncomfortable to fight back. “It’s an awkward thing for the Republicans strategically,” Kranz said.
The top Republican Senate candidate would be Gov. Mike Rounds, who has strong approval ratings. But political observers are unsure Rounds will run: The governor has repeatedly skirted questions about his national political ambitions by saying he loves his current job.
and...
If Johnson declines to seek re-election, Republicans who would consider a Senate race include former Lt. Gov. Steve Kirby, who is personally wealthy and who lost to Rounds in the 2002 primary for governor. Also mentioned are Jarrod Johnson, the state School and Public Lands Commissioner, and Dusty Johnson, the chairman of the state Public Utilities Commission. Neither man is related to Sen. Johnson.
Michael Card, a political scientist at the University of South Dakota, said former state House Speaker Matt Michaels and state Senate Majority Leader Dave Knudson have ample name recognition but neither has publicly expressed interest in running for the Senate.
On the Democratic side, Rep. Stephanie Herseth-Sandlin would be far and away her party’s strongest candidate if Johnson does not run.
What say you the reader - who are the other big dogs the GOP has hanging around the porch?
Comments
the media has been pathetic on this story
US Senate:
Marty Jackley (sorry forgot how to spell last name, duh feeling)
Chris Nelson
Larry Long
What about Mark Barnett
SD Governor:
Matt M.
??????
US House:
list later.
I just typed it off the top of my head and knew i could be missing some.
Though some might see Matt Mc with some baggage????
The guy who was the supposed secret donor for the abortion ban and probably the one who Hunt laundered money for. Like all of that would not come out in an election.
You know its comin'
If Johnson is well enough to tell his staff how to vote (with his proxy) in committee and what to say in press releases, then he ought to be able to sit down for a few minutes with a reporter.
If a US Congressman or US Senator is in a long battle with an illness I feel it is only fair and in the best interest of a state that they step down. Look at South Dakota and how we are represented we only have 3.
We need a voice in there fighting the fights!
I have only well wishes for Sen. Johnson and his family. No matter what party I would never wish ill thoughts!
PP himself.
As to the Jarrod Johnson speculation...what utter buffoonism. Let's let him figure out how to do his current job before giving him a new one. I'm surprised somebody didn't suggest his "hot" chick employee Jae Asdfghjkl should run, after she's done being a movie star on the tax payer's dime.
And J Johnson would be a fine senator, but give him a few years to clean up Healy's mess first.