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US Rep. Kristi Noem Off To A Strong 2016 Fundraising Start

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Republican U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem’s $1 million campaign bank account puts her in a strong position for her fourth congressional bid with more than a year-and-a-half before Election Day, but observers say she’ll be an easier target for South Dakota’s struggling Democratic Party than U.S. Sen. John Thune.

First-quarter federal fundraising numbers released this week show Noem brought in roughly $367,000 and that she is sitting on slightly more than $1 million. Noem and Thune are South Dakota’s two federal officials up for re-election in 2016.

Noem campaign consultant Justin Brasell says he’s pleased with the fundraising pace for the quarter. Observers say both Noem and Thune will be tough challenges.

But Minnehaha County Commissioner Jeff Barth, a veteran political observer, says Noem is “absolutely” an easier target for Democrats.