THANK YOU!!!

To all Stephanie's all-star volunteers, supporters, friends, and staff: THANK YOU. It is an honor to work for such a talented, articulate, caring Member of Congress and it is just as much of a priviledge to have met so many dedicated, active supporters and friends throughout this campaign. Stephanie's acceptance speech last night was for YOU. You are the people who make victories like yesterday's possible.

Check out Stephanie's acceptance speech here and photos from the election night celebration here.

South Dakota has a strong, independent voice in Congress because of you, so this one is for all of those supporters who saw Stephanie through this election. Thanks again and keep in touch!

VOTE TODAY!!!

Polls are open across the state from 7 AM until 7 PM TODAY!! Be part of this historic election, participate in our democracy, PLEASE GO VOTE!

If you need any help with locating your polling location or if you need a ride to the polls, call Stephanie's office at (605)332-1901 or the SD Democratic Party at 1-877-868-3208.

Pumped Up and Ready to Go!!

Stephanie joined Senator Tim Johnson, former Senator George McGovern, and local legislative candidates in Sioux Falls tonight for a standing-room only, HUGE rally at the Labor Temple. There was an electricity in the room from all the fired up supporters excited to hear from these outstanding candidates. No one is taking this energy or the enormity of this election year for granted. The crowd and candidates were pumped to do all they can to get out the vote tomorrow.

Check out photos from the event here. And don't forget to get out and vote on Tuesday! This huge, excited crowd was there for a reason - don't pass up your opportunity to make your voice heard and VOTE! If you have any questions on your polling location or need help voting, call Stephanie's campaign office at (605)332-1901.

Pancakes Feed and Rally in Sioux Falls

Stephanie's bi-annual Pancake Feed and Rally at the Sioux Falls Labor Temple on Sunday was a great success! With over 150 people eating a pancake breakfast prepared by Stephanie's team, the crowd was energized and ready to head out to walk their neighborhoods and help get out the vote. Dozens of local candidates were in attendance to rally their supporters and volunteers as well. Stephanie's husband, Max, emceed the event with State Senate Democratic Leader Scott Hiedepriem, PUC Candidate Matt McLarty providing their perspectives on this year's historic election, and Stephanie serving as the keynote speaker.

Thanks who all turned out and helped out! To see more photos of the event, click here.

Info on Election Night Celebrations

Come Celebrate the Results Together!

Candidates and supporters across the state will be celebrating together on Tuesday night. If you live near one of these three locations, come join the gathering as we watch the results come in live from across the state and country.

Sioux Falls Convention Center

Ballroom A

7 PM

Statewide candidates to attend

Rapid City Civic Center Holiday Inn

Ballroom

7:30 PM

Food provided

Aberdeen Ramkota Inn

Courtyard/ Atrium Room

7 PM

Huron Rally

Stephanie and her husband Max were joined by Senator Johnson, PUC candidate Matt McLarty, and former-South Dakota Governor Harvey Wollman for a huge rally in Huron this past Friday. The Farmers Union State Headquarters was PACKED with over 120 people. The Beadle County Democrats served up a chili lunch to an excited and motivated crowd.

Thanks to all the folks in Huron for making this such a great event. This election year is an insipiring one, and the crowd at this rally reflected that as they listened to these three top-notch candidates and then went out to drop literature in a 'Get Out the Vote' effort the same day. See photos of the event here.

Bundled Up and Ready to Go!

Rapid City supporters bundled up for the fall weather and rallied to support Stephanie as she went into her last debate before the election. With a rally sign in one hand and hot chocolate in the other, a big crowd chanted “Go, Steph, Go!” as she entered KOTA for the debate. The group then watched Stephanie cruise through the lightening fast half hour debate with grace and intelligence.

West River showed their support for Stephanie, and in the debate Stephanie showed West River why she’s the best choice on Nov. 4th. If you missed it, you can check it out here . Thanks for your support! Keep up the momentum and sign up to volunteer this coming weekend: 605-716-3391.

KELO DEBATE!

In the third of the four debates for this campaign season, Stephanie once again went head-to-head with her opponent, and once again she shined as a Member of Congress South Dakota can be proud of. Please take time to watch the debate by following this link to the KELO-LAND TV website here.

Dozens of supporters braved the cold and drizzle in downtown Sioux Falls to cheer on Stephanie outside the KELO studio. Check out photos of the pre-debate rally here.

There's one more chance to catch a debate live and participate in one of these fun rallies to show your support of Stephanie! Tune in to KOTA in Rapid City on Monday, October 27th at 6:30 PM for the final debate. Contact Erin McCarrick at erin@stephanieforsouthdakota.org if you can join us before the debate at 5:30 PM for the rally.

South Dakota's Congresswoman is the clear choice in this election. See for yourself and watch these debates!

SDPB Debate

Stephane had the opportunity to debate her opponent last night at the South Dakota Public Broadcasting studio at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion. A crowd of enthusiastic supporters also came to cheer her on - check out photos on Stephanie's Flickr page.

Please link here to SDPB's website to view the debate. See it for yourself. Stephanie clearly showed her breadth of knowledge on all the issues discussed like healthcare, the economy, and education as well outlined her hard work in Congress on behalf of South Dakotans.

Walking with Friends

Stephanie had the honor to be a part of the Grand Entry at the He Sapa Wacipi this past Sunday. The floor was packed with beautiful dancers from tribes all across South Dakota and the plains, the air was blessed by sage, and the beat of the drums resonated in the Civic Center. Stephanie had a chance to talk to the crowd, to thank them for their continued support, and to inform everyone about the hard work she is doing for the Oyate in Congress. The Wacipi was a big success. It was great to see old friends and new faces, and to honor the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen at the Democrat Chili Feed on Saturday.

Rapid City Harvest Fest Rally

Stephanie had the opportunity to participate in a huge, energetic rally in Rapid City on Monday. Senator Tim Johnson and the Pennington County Democrats helped decorate and organize this huge and energetic event. Check out photos of Stephanie greeting voters and speaking to the crowd at the rally here.

Only 3 weeks left and the campaign is running on the highest gear. Join in the excitement and volunteer your time to help ensure we keep Stephanie as our strong, independent voice in Congress! Fill out the volunteer form here and become a part of the action.

New Ad: Stephanie's message to our veterans and soldiers

Take a moment to listen to Stephanie explain her work on behalf of our veterans and military service men and women. With her position as Chairwoman of the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, her commitment to working to support our veterans and service members is clear through her work in Congress.

Click here for additional commercials

Vote Early - Cast Your Ballot Today!

Early Voting has started in South Dakota!! If you're like me and want to get a heads start on filling out your ballot, now is the time to act. October is a busy month and not just for us on the campaign trail. Take voting off your plate by either stopping by your county auditor's office or visiting the SD Secretary of State's website and request an absentee ballot. Be sure your voice is heard this remarkably important election year and vote early!!

If you still need to register to vote, call our office for help at (605)332-1901 or go to the state's webpage to request a voter registration form.

If you'd like to view a sample ballot or check your voter registration status, check out the Secretary of State's Voter Information Portal (VIP).

The first yard signs went up in Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Aberdeen last weekend, and more may be coming soon to a community near you.

The signs are an easy way to show your support for Stephanie, and while there are plenty of signs up already, we’re always looking for another great location: your yard.

To get a sign, fill out the form here or call one of our offices.

132nd Annual Sicangu Lakota Wacipi

During Stephanie's travels around the state visiting constituents, she stopped off in Rosebud to be a part of the Grand Entry at the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Pow Wow over the weekend. Stephanie entered with her good friends Robert Moore, President Bordeaux, the Akichita, and all the wonderful dancers. She and Senator Johnson addressed the crowd to thank them for their continued support and to talk about their work for Indian Country. Pilamaya ye to everyone who was a part of the 132nd Annual Sicangu Lakota Wacipi. It was a great celebration!

Photos from Dakotafest

As Stephanie had the opportunity to talk about issues facing South Dakotans at the Dakotafest debate yesterday, many supporters had the experience to hear her speak first hand on her work in Congress and on her extensive knowledge of agriculture and energy issues. I was in the audience taking photos and I encourage you to check them out the campaign Flickr page.

Stephanie Provides Substance and Solutions at Dakotafest Debate

In the first debate of the 2008 campaign season, Stephanie once again proved why she's the right person for the job. In each response to a variety of questions from the moderator and the audience, Stephanie gave concrete examples of how she's met the concerns of South Dakotans with the legislation she has introduced and passed for us in Washington. That legislation has been fiscally responsible and has reached across party lines.

The ranchers and farmers in the group were encouraged to hear about the progress the commodities bill, HR 6604, and Stephanie's dedication to get it passed in the House in September.

For those of us concerned about gas prices, (That’s all of us, right?) Stephanie gave a great answer that outlined her multifaceted approach to tackling the energy crisis. To find out more information regarding Stephanie's energy policy and how she's helping meet the needs of South Dakotans, check out our website.

Thanks to all of you who attended the debate and we look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail!

The Black Hills just got a little more Independent!

The Campaign hit the Southern Hills with barn signs this weekend. So now on your way to Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse and all the other marvels the hills have to offer, you'll see some blue and orange mixed in. We'll put the signs up, you just tell us where.

It was also great to be in the Southern Hills for the Custer County Fair. We met a lot of people at the booth and at the annual Beers and Ears at the American Legion. The Campaign took part in the parade as the pick-up rolled through downtown and into the grand stand. A big hand to all those who braved the heat to walk in the parade and those who wore Stephanie stickers and cheered from the sidelines (I'm sure it had nothing to do with the candy!).

A Beautiful Weekend in Pine Ridge

The Stephanie for South Dakota campaign visited our friends in Pine Ridge this past weekend at the Oglala Nation Pow Wow. We had many visitors pick up stickers, sign up for information, and chat about the work that Stephanie is doing in Indian Country. All of the dancers, drummers, singers, and announcers were amazing as always. Congratulations to the Pow Wow Committee for putting together another wonderful event and welcoming us to the festivities. We look forward to visiting again in the future.

Listening to our Veterans and Soldiers

Stephanie is taking the words and wisdom of South Dakotans back to Washington. This past Monday, July 28, Stephanie held a field hearing to listen to the military community about their experiences with the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). As chair of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, under the Veterans Affairs Committee, Stephanie brought Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AK) to Rapid City to see first hand how legislation affects people back home in South Dakota.

Stephanie and Rep. Boozman heard from soldiers, veterans, commanding officers, soldier's spouses, leaders of veterans’ service organizations, and those who work in the government to assist soldiers and veterans with TAP. This was a great opportunity for those in the community to affect legislation, and another way Stephanie is working for South Dakota in Washington.

The Final Countdown!

No, it's not just a sweet 80's rock ballad, it's the countdown to Election Day! We now have 94 days until the big day. The campaign has been in the community for some time now, but these last 100 days are the most fun and the best time to get involved. If you would like to go out in the field to talk to your neighbors about the great work Stephanie is doing, stop by one of the three campaign offices statewide and we can get you started. Stay posted for all the upcoming events and activities during this exciting time!

Stephanie at the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe Wacipi

The support shown to Stephanie at the 46th Annual Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe Wacipi was phenomenal. Stephanie participated in the Grand Entry last Saturday night and stayed for several hours to chat with folks and watch the scores of dancers perform. She also had the opportunity to say a few words of greeting. The evening was full of touching moments, including Stephanie assisting in the distribution of pink shawls to cancer survivors.

Another great moment happened as I was taking photos durng the formal Grand Entry for the website (check them out at Stephanie's Flickr page). A grandmother sitting next to me encouraged her young grandaughter to meet the woman who's name was on the stickers she was so proudly displaying on her clothes. The little girl took her grandmother's advice literally at that moment and ran out into the middle of the procession to stand by Stephanie and meet her as her grandmother had suggested. While the audience looked on, Stephanie was kept company by her young fan, and eventually by another girl in a traditional dress who saw her friend meeting Stephanie and took advantage of the opportunity as well.

Thanks to all the great support shown to Stephanie at the pow wow. She had a fantastic time and those of us on the campaign are always thrilled to have the chance to tag along and meet such enthusiastic supporters!

Interns Wanted -

Are you or anyone you know looking for college or high school credit and want experience in this year’s historic election process? Put your energy and support for Stephanie to work! I started out volunteering and interning for campaigns in high school and college and learned incredibly valuable skills and an insiders view of how the political campaign process really works. All three campaign offices are now accepting applications for internships. Hours are flexible and work involves in-depth involvement in the day-to-day operations of a state-wide Congressional campaign. Become part of Stephanie’s team today! We'd be thrilled to have you.

In Sioux Falls, contact me at (605)332-1901
In Rapid City, contact Erin McCarrick at (605)716-3391
In Aberdeen, contact William Anderson at (605)725-2710

Stephanie for South Dakota in the streets of Wall

Not only were the Wall donuts delicious, but the Annual Wall Celebration Parade was a really fun time. We brought the pick-up to downtown Wall all decked out with Stephanie signs. Thanks to everyone who helped put that parade together and thanks to all our supporters in Wall!

Barn Signs and Yard Signs Going Up!

Yesterday, many barn and yard signs made their way across the state. A few of them were dropped off in Mitchell, Chamberlain, Presho and Wasta. We’ll be putting up more around the hills in the upcoming weeks. Please give the Rapid City office a call at (605)716-3391 if you would like to proudly display a Stephanie for South Dakota barn or yard sign! . Also, call William in Aberdeen to request one in Northeastern South Dakota at (605)725-2712 and Emily in the Southeastern region at (605)332-1901.

Stephanie Supporters Rocked the 4th of July Weekend!

For everyone involved, we wanted to thank you for your help and support over the 4th of July weekend. You created a wonderful holiday for Stephanie during her time in the hills. There were many people welcoming Stephanie at the Heritage Festival, visiting with her around the hills, watching her speech at Mt. Rushmore, and walking with her in parades.

At the Heritage Festival, Stephanie visited with many constituents and even a few members of our local music scene. The two Johns (from The Redmen and Common Law Love) were able to spend a few moments talking at the Civic Center Bandshell. Stephanie also visited with the evening’s main entertainment – K.O.D. From there it was straight off to Mt. Rushmore where Stephanie was able to be a part of one of our nation’s greatest fireworks displays. She gave a speech honoring World War I Veteran Frank Buckles. As usual, it proved to be a spectacular event.

All the communities in the Northern Black Hills showed strong support for Stephanie on the 4th, and the organizers of all the parades and events kept the weekend moving smoothly. This was especially impressive at the Belle Fourche parade that had over 250 entries! Stephanie rode in style thanks to the volunteers who drove her through the parades. Ron Pitman took the wheels in Belle, Rosalie Aslesen navigated the Spearfish parade, and Bill Walsh took over in Lead/Deadwood.

Thanks for the support!! Stephanie really enjoyed visiting the Hills once again and thanks to everyone for spending time with her. Let's keep it going until November. If you missed the fun over the weekend, there are plenty more events and ways to get involved. Take a moment on your lunch break or when you’re in Rapid for your errands to stop by the campaign office to say hello.

Let the Parades begin!

Stephanie's campaign kicked off the parade season West River in the Festival of Presidents Parade this past Saturday. The Herseth Sandlin shirts were in large numbers as the parade marched through downtown. The Pennington County Democrats brought out the unicycles, Westies, convertibles, cars and marchers to honor our presidents and support
the great candidates.

Parade watchers welcomed Stephanie stickers and candy that we passed out. Despite the wind, all the signs stayed attached to their floats and everyone had a great time.

This next weekend brings many more parades in the hills. Please come join Stephanie as she celebrates Independence Day in parades and visits with West River constituents. The weekend fun starts off at 9:30 in Belle Fourche. Come join us on the corner of 7th Avenue and National Street in downtown Belle. From there we head to Spearfish and then to Deadwood/Lead. These 3 parades make for a really fun day and a unique way to celebrate. Don't miss out. If
you would like to volunteer, call 605-716-3391.

Thanks to all the volunteers so far. Three all-star volunteers helped make the office look spectacular this morning. Come on by and check it out. It can always use more décor and we always appreciate a friendly face, so volunteers...come on down!

Volunteer Activities - Sign Up Now!

I hope everyone had a great first weekend of summer with the spectacular weather we had in the Black Hills. I hope it stays this gorgeous for the next two weekends because of all the great events coming up. As Emily posted, we will be with Stephanie as she travels to the Black Hills for the 4th of July festivities. We hope that her supporters can join us in the parades and show their support for our Congresswoman. If you want to walk with us for any of the parades on the 4th or if you would like to volunteer in other events, please give me a call at 605-716-3391.

Also, if you are not going to the State Democratic Convention, you can join me at the Festival of Presidents Parade this Saturday, June 28th. It will be a fun parade in downtown Rapid City, so come out and wave a flag and a sign for Stephanie. Hope to see you there!

And Summer Is Here!

With the official start of summer having passed just last week, Stephanie and her campaign are looking forward to the much anticipated parades, fairs, and community events across the state. Stephanie will be heading to the Black Hills next week for a series of parades and 4th of July celebrations.

After Stephanie participates in the fireworks celebration at Mt. Rushmore National Memorial on July 3rd, Erin and I will be accompanying her to the Belle Fourche, Spearfish, and Lead/Deadwood Independence Day parades on July 4th. If you're in the area, please stop by and say hello. These are some of the most fun events we are lucky enough to be a part of and meeting folks across the region is a huge part of that.

We'll keep you posted on other summer events Stephanie will be participating in. Again, feel free to contact me or any other staff with event requests or comments. Thanks and enjoy the summer!

Hello West River!

Hello! My name is Erin McCarrick and I am very excited to be serving as Stephanie’s Deputy Campaign Manager and West River Director. West River is full of strong, independent voices and I’m excited to help lead the charge to re-elect South Dakota’s independent voice to Congress. Many of you may remember me from Stephanie’s 2004 campaign. I made some great friends, met many amazing volunteers, and worked hard to elect a great Representative to the U.S. Congress.

I have also had the opportunity to work in Stephanie’s Congressional office in Rapid City in 2006 and 2007. There, I had the privilege to serve South Dakota’s veteran, military, Native American, and business communities, to name a few. As one of Stephanie’s representatives on the ground, I’m very aware of the concerns that face West River constituents. That’s why I’m working hard this year to re-elect Stephanie. She knows South Dakota’s concerns and interests and she’s the best candidate to represent our state in Washington.

Stephanie’s office is now open in Rapid City so please be sure to stop in and say hi. We are located near the corner of West Main Street and Mt. View Road in the old Picasso’s Pizza Barn. It will be a busy time from now until November. The Rapid City office will be involved in community events, parades, celebrations, and of course listening to the concerns of the voters all over West River.

It’s an exciting year and an exciting time to get involved, so stop in to volunteer, help organize, register to vote, or learn more about what Stephanie is doing for you.

I look forward to seeing you!

Welcome!

Welcome to Stephanie Herseth Sandlin's campaign blog!

I want to take a moment to introduce myself and the rest of Stephanie's campaign staff and let you know we're here for any questions, comments, or suggestions that we can answer regarding Stephanie's re-election campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives. All of our contact information can be found at Stephanie's website at http://www.stephanieforsouthdakota.org/. Please stop by the site, check out Stephanie's stance on issues important to you, find out ways you can be involved in the campaign, and always feel free to contact us.

My name is Emily Lefholz and I joined Stephanie's team as Campaign Manager just a few months ago. Having been born and raised in the Gateway to the Black Hills, Rapid City, I graduated from Stevens High School and have been volunteering and working for South Dakota interests ever since. My lineage, however, is a little more East River slanted, with a mom from Sioux Falls and a dad from a farm just outside of Webster. I've had the pleasure over the last few months to get to know my mom's hometown a little better, as Stephanie's Campaign Headquarters, where I'm based, is in Sioux Falls.

While South Dakota has always made me homesick when I've traveled away, I did take some time to explore the world recently by completing a two year service as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Southern African country of Lesotho. I spent my time in Lesotho working as an English, Life Skills, and HIV/AIDs teacher in a rural, village high school. I finished my Peace Corps service in December of 2007.

It's been a long road home, but not only am I more grateful than ever to be from this amazing country and state, I am thrilled to be back working for such an exceptional and strong leader for South Dakota. I had previously worked for Stephanie on her Congressional staff in Rapid City as well as in her campaign office during the 2004 special and general elections. I know Stephanie well and continue to be inspired by her work ethic and dedication to South Dakota priorities. From my first hand experience, keeping up with her energy and schedule traveling around the state and making it back to vote on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives can really wear a person out, so it's good there are a few of us trying to do it.

Stephanie's Finance Director, Katy Hayes, works hard for Stephanie to connect supporters with opportunites to become and stay involved in the campaign. Katy hails from Sioux Falls and is proud to be a graduate of Lincoln High School. While growing up on the eastern side of the state, Katy spent numerous summers in the Black Hills at her family's cabin and makes the trek west whenever time permits.

Katy has lived in many places including Phoenix, AZ and Minneapolis, MN. The decision to move back to South Dakota came in 2006 and returning to her hometown's engaged, supportive community has proven to be a rewarding decision.

If you or any friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers are interested in contributing or volunteering on Stephanie's campaign, let Katy know, she's only a phone call or email away.

Stay tuned for a post from the Deputy Campaign Manager, Erin McCarrick, out in Rapid City, along with information on new staff in the coming weeks.

Again, we're here for you. Check back for periodic blog updates on campaign events in your community and across the state. Enjoy the new website!