PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Kristi Noem today issued the following statement congratulating Justice Steven Jensen on his selection as the next Chief Justice of the South Dakota Supreme Court:

“Congratulations to Justice Steven Jensen on his selection to serve as the next Chief Justice of the South Dakota Supreme Court. Justice Jensen is a great public servant and, though he has some big shoes to fill, I’m sure he’s up to the task,” said Governor Noem.

Justice Jensen was selected by his peers to serve as the next Chief Justice. You can read the release on his selection from the Unified Judicial System here.

Governor Noem also thanked outgoing Chief Justice David Gilbertson for his long career of service to South Dakota, including his 20 years as Chief Justice, the longest such tenure in South Dakota history:

“From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Chief Justice Gilbertson for his more than three decades of service to our state. He’s been a true public servant and a leader on improving and reforming our judicial system, and I have greatly valued his advice, wisdom, and support since taking office as Governor,” said Governor Noem.