She's never held political office before, but that didn't stop Governor Mike Rounds from hand-picking her to be the next District 32 state representative. Republican Kristin Conzet is replacing Brian Dreyer, who will soon be deployed to Afghanistan. Conzet admits that while she's excited for the position, she definitely needs the next month to prepare for the upcoming legislative session.

Earlier this week, Conzet was working from home as a consultant; now, she's preparing for her first jump into the political arena.

"Being a legislator or senator, there is not type of litmus test, anybody can do it.  I have stayed focused on political events being a citizen of South Dakota," Conzet said.

When she takes the floor next month, Conzet is planning to face issues of taxation, education and unemployment rates, but most importantly, a multi-million dollar budget deficit. That's an issue she admits she's not well versed in.

"Being two days on the job, I have not been privy to what the governor is going to propose so that's a key component. There will be some tough choices that have to be made as everybody is aware, but once again, I am going to wait and see the step that my party takes and what the Governor proposes and make an informed decision," Conzet said.

Conzet has known the Governor for 20 years; he and her father are business partners, but she says she did not lobby for the position and it's not a conflict of interest.

Karla Ramaekers: Do you think that relationship helped you get the position?

"I don't think the Governor has ever appointed anybody to a position that he does not know. South Dakota is a very small state. It's not about personal relationships; it's about my merit and my ability to do the position so I hope he saw something in me," Conzet said.

To hear more from Conzet, click on the play button on the video player below.