By Kealey Bultena
A South Dakota state Senator wants the Attorney General to look into his concerns of conflict of interest in another government office. Senator Stan Adelstein of Rapid City says Secretary of State staffer Pat Powers is abusing his post with the state by running a private business related to campaigning and elections. Adelstein says that is a blatant conflict of interest.
"It was the political consulting part, but not only that. There’s almost an inherent suggestion that if you buy things that you can buy other places online yard signs, mailers or hats, the argument put together that you’re going to be in a much more favorable position should you end up in an election with a close race that requires rulings from that very office," Adelstein says.
Attorney General Marty Jackley’s office says a letter with Adelstein’s concerns is under review.
South Dakota Public Broadcasting contacted Secretary of State Jason Gant about Adelstein’s remarks, but he hasn’t returned the call. Gant tells other members of the media he was aware of Pat Powers’ personal business through May of this year, but asked Powers to end it when people became concerned.
The website for the business has been removed.