The governor of South Dakota is the head of government of South Dakota. The governor is elected to a four-year term in even years when there is no presidential election. The current governor is Kristi Noem, a member of the Republican Party who took office on January 5, 2019. Qualifications Anyone who seeks to be elected Governor of South Dakota must meet the following qualifications: Be a citizen of the United States Be at least 21 years old Be a resident of South Dakota for at least two years as of the election Powers and duties The governor holds many powers and duties, which in many ways are similar to those held by the President of the United States: The governor serves as a spokesperson for the state, promoting business and economic development interests. The governor is actively involved in the legislative process; they may introduce legislation, and have the power to veto bills passed by the South Dakota Legislature (though vetoes may be overridden by a two-thirds vote of each house). The governor oversees the executive branch, and appoints the cabinet members. The governor also appoints the members of a wide array of state boards and commissions. The governor is the commander-in-chief of the South Dakota National Guard. The governor may grant pardons to those convicted of criminal offenses under state law. The governor fills vacancies that occur in the state legislature, the state judiciary, and other state constitutional offices. The governor also fills vacancies in United States Senate seats from South Dakota. The governor is the titular head of their political party. History From 1889 until 1974, the governor served a two-year term. Until the 1940s, the governor was allowed to serve unlimited terms; since that time, governors have been limited to two consecutive terms. The gubernatorial term was extended to four years in 1974. The governor and lieutenant governor run on a single ticket. The gubernatorial nominee must win a primary. Whereas the lieutenant governor nominee is selected at a state party convention. After the convention they run on a single ticket. The first governor of South Dakota was Arthur C. Mellette, who was also the last governor of the Dakota Territory. Two of South Dakota's governors have left office before their term expired. In 1978, Richard F. Kneip resigned office six months before the expiration of his term to accept an appointment as United States Ambassador