Gov. Kristi Noem opted not to attend a gubernatorial debate Monday night in Sioux Falls hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcast, instead throwing a “Salute to Veterans” campaign event about a mile away at the Military Heritage Alliance.

More than 750 people attended the campaign event, which included an auction and dinner.

NEWS: Smith, Noem trade blows in their only gubernatorial debate

Campaign staffers for Kristi for Governor, including Ben Koisti, helped usher attendees through the food line during a break from the program’s ceremonies. The campaign has faced accusations that the event is a violation of election laws, with critics characterizing it as exchanging goods and services for votes. No voting took place on the premises.

“The event tonight is a ticketed event and is open to the public - it is not a campaign fundraiser and is not a get out the vote rally. The purpose of the event at the Alliance tonight is to honor veterans, not recruit voters,” Noem’s attorney, Matt McCaulley, said in a statement sent to The Dakota Scout. “Any and all proceeds of this event benefit non-profit veterans organizations, and the use of campaign funds for this purpose is specifically authorized under South Dakota law (SDCL 12-27-50)."

Meanwhile, Democratic nominee for governor, Rep. Jamie Smith, engaged in SDPB’s debate. Smith has criticized Noem for not participating in multiple debates as part of her re-election campaign.