The Governor of South Dakota is the head of the executive branch of the government of South Dakota. The current governor is M. Michael Rounds, a Republican elected in 2002. From 1889 until 1974, the governor served a two-year term. Until the 1940's, the governor was allowed to serve unlimited terms; since that time, governors have been limited to two consecutive terms. Beginning in 1974, the governor is elected to a four-year term, and may serve two consecutive terms. The governor is elected on a ticket with the Lieutenant Governor.