SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) -- The Jackley campaign for the Republican nomination for governor says new external and internal polls show Attorney General Marty Jackley pulling ahead of U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem.
The campaign, however, would not release any details about the polls they were citing.
Campaign manager Jason Glodt made the announcement at the end of a news conference that featured over twenty current and former Republican leaders who support Jackley.
Both Glodt and Jackley say the negative campaign ads being run by Noem and groups supporting her have backfired.
"This sour Washington approach hasn't worked in South Dakota," Jackley said. "It's been rejected."
As proof of the alleged backlash, Glodt said that in a four hour period in the last day or so, the Jackley campaign raised over $30,000 in a four hour period.
"I've never worked in a campaign that's raise $30,000 in four hours," Glodt added.
Former Sioux Falls Mayor Gary Hanson was one of the supporters on hand. He said he was friends with both of candidates and that he had been "conflicted." However, he said he had to make a choice.
"Marty stands out because of his experience," Hanson said.
Several other supporters also denounced the tone the campaign for the GOP nomination had taken in recent weeks.
Jackley held his event this afternoon at the downtown public library.
About a half hour after the Jackley event ended, the Noem campaign sent out a media release titled, "Jackley Stands with Lawyers, Lobbyists, Pierre Politicians."
The Noem statement:
“We’re grateful to Marty Jackley for bringing together so many lawyers, lobbyists, Pierre politicians, and state contractors to point out the differences between our campaigns. He’s a government lawyer who will maintain the status quo that’s led to scandals, mismanagement and million-dollar settlements. Kristi Noem is a farmer, rancher, and small business owner, who understands the struggles normal South Dakotans face.”
The GOP primary for Governor and U.S. Congress is Tuesday.
Click the video at right to play the full news conference.