South Dakota Legislator Defends Candidacy

A Rapid City legislator whose spot on the November ballot might be in jeopardy says a lawsuit claiming his nominating petitions were illegal is "baloney."

Rep. Brian Gosch says he thinks the lawsuit is an attempt to influence the House leadership. Gosch was speaker pro tempore last session. The person who holds that position traditionally is elected speaker in his or her next term.

The lawsuit alleging illegalities on Bosch's nominating petitions was filed by Rapid City businesswoman Stephanie Strong. She says she would like to see a leadership change, but that the lawsuit is "simply about the rule of law."

A judge has ordered Secretary of State Jason Gant to justify why Bosch should stay on the ballot, or remove his name.