The South Dakota Governor is the head of the executive branch of the state government in South Dakota. This position is responsible for implementing state laws, overseeing the state budget, and managing various state agencies. The governor also has the power to veto legislation and appoint officials to key positions. Elected to a four-year term, the governor plays a crucial role in shaping state policy and addressing issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The current governor, Kristi Noem, has been in office since January 2019 and is the first woman to hold this position in South Dakota's history.