Democrats have their first candidate for the U.S. House. Two-term state Representative Paula Hawks of Hartford announced her candidacy on Monday for the seat held by Republican Kristi Noem. Hawks says her experience in the legislature makes her a good candidate for Congress. She wants to focus on seniors, farmers and ranchers, equality for women, education and student loan debt.
Hawks grew up on a family farm north of Flandreau and taught for ten years at West Central High School in Hartford. Along with serving in the state legislature, she works as a training specialist in the banking industry.
Kristi Noem was first elected to South Dakota's lone house seat in 2010. She hasn't made an official announcement, but is expected to seek another term in 2016.
Hawks joined Dakota Midday and discussed her candidacy.