Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin (D-South Dakota), one of Indian Country's biggest advocates on Capitol Hill, lost her re-election bid on Tuesday.

Herseth Sandlin was defeated by Republican Kristi Noem. With all precincts reporting, the incumbent only had 45.9 percent of the vote, compared to 48.1 percent for her challenger.

"I will do my very best to represent every single South Dakotan," Noem said in her victory speech, The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reported.

Herseth Sandlin has been a longtime member of the House Natural Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over Indian issues. She sponsored the Indian Health Care Improvement Act and the Tribal Law and Order Act, both of which became law this year.

Get the Story:
Wave carries Kristi Noem (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 11/3)

Related Stories:
Native Sun News: Rep. Herseth Sandlin campaigns at Pine Ridge (10/20)
Stephanie Herseth Sandlin: Seeking Indian Country's support (10/18)