SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (WNAX) – The South Dakota Democratic Party has taken steps to shore up its finances, including closing their offices in Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Party Chair Paula Hawks, who started that position on May first says she was blindsided by a Federal Election Commission audit report.

Hawks says closing the two offices was the best way to start getting their finances under control.

The audit by the F.E.C. found the party under reported spending by $2.5 million in the 2016 election cycle and took contributions from unregistered sources. Hawks says action on that report is being held up due to problems with the F.E.C.

Hawks says their staff will be working remotely and can still be reached through the party’s phone number and website.