Matt McGovern, the grandson of former Sen. George McGovern, is emerging as a potential contender to Thune, who is seeking his second term in the Senate. The few big names in the Democratic Party have already committed to other races, and a thin bench could give McGovern a clear shot at Thune.
McGovern, 37, is the state director for Repower America, a national group founded by former Vice President Al Gore to promote clean energy and policies that address climate change. He also served as President Obama’s state chairman during last year’s campaign.