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

The South Dakota Legislature voted unanimously on Thursday at the Capitol in Pierre to confirm Tony Venhuizen as the state’s lieutenant governor. Venhuizen, 42, was sworn in shortly afterward. The Sioux Falls Republican’s voice shook momentarily with emotion as he took to the lectern to address the Senate in his first remarks as the body’s

A Sioux Falls legislator and longtime presence in South Dakota Republican politics, Tony Venhuizen, is Gov. Larry Rhoden’s pick for lieutenant governor.

South Dakota voters are going through their own period of adjustment as Larry Rhoden settles into his new job as governor. Many voters, especially those who live on the east side of the state, are still unfamiliar with the longtime West River politician.