FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 4, 2025

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Appoints Judge Robert Gusinsky to the South Dakota Supreme Court 

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of Presiding Judge Robert Gusinsky of the Seventh Circuit to serve as a supreme court justice for the First Supreme District. This vacancy was created by the retirement of the Honorable Janine Kern. The First Supreme District consists of the counties of Custer, Lawrence, Meade, and Pennington.

“South Dakota prides itself on honoring our Constitution and upholding the rule of law,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “Justice Kern has done a remarkable job serving our state with integrity and fairness, and I have no doubt that Judge Gusinsky will pick up the torch with the same commitment and conviction. He is even-keeled and humble, and his background gives him a unique perspective that will strengthen our Supreme Court.”

Judge Robert Gusinsky was born in Latvia. After emigrating with his parents through Israel and Germany, he settled in California and became a U.S. citizen. Gusinsky enjoyed his earlier career as an airline pilot before changing course to pursue law. He enrolled at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law in 1993. Following graduation, he practiced as a trial lawyer at Lynn, Jackson, Shultz & Lebrun and later at Clayborne, Loos, Strommen & Gusinsky in Rapid City. Gusinsky went on to serve in the U.S. Attorney’s Office before being appointed to the Seventh Circuit bench by former Governor Dennis Daugaard. In 2024, the Chief Justice named Gusinsky the presiding judge of the Seventh Circuit.

“I am deeply humbled, honored, and grateful for the trust placed in me by Governor Rhoden,” said Judge Robert Gusinsky. “I look forward to continuing to serve the citizens of South Dakota and pledge to uphold the law that governs our State with fairness, integrity, and dedication.” 

“Robert Gusinsky has been an excellent judge for the last 12 years in a busy circuit. He is hard working, highly skilled, and well respected,” said Justice Janine Kern. “I am honored to pass the baton to him. I know he will make an excellent Supreme Court Justice.”

Judge Robert Gusinsky is married to his wife Ronda. They have two children and two grandchildren. A photo of Judge Gusinsky can be found here.

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