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US Rep. Kristi Noem Outraises Democratic Challenger By $197K

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A Democratic state representative has raised about $63,400 since launching her campaign to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem, who has more than $1.3 million in the bank.

Federal reports show Noem raised more than $260,000 in the latest fundraising quarter, nearly $200,000 over what challenger Paula Hawks raised.

This is the first finance deadline since Hawks announced her bid. So far she’s the only Democrat running, and has about $45,600 on hand.

Hawks campaign manager Zach Nistler says the campaign is pleased and will build on the numbers. Noem campaign consultant Justin Brasell says Noem’s ready for a competitive race.

Jon Schaff is a political science professor at Northern State University. He says Hawks needs to raise enough money to show she can sustain a credible bid against Noem.