John McCain defeated Barack Obama in South Dakota in the 2008 presidential election, winning the state's 3 electoral votes.

According to Pollster.com, McCain maintained a lead over Obama throughout the presidential race. However, McCain went on the lose the presidential election. McCain gave a concession speech in Phoenix, Arizona, congratulating his opponent on his perseverance.Pollster.com: [http://www.pollster.com/polls/sd/08-sd-pres-ge-mvo.php 2008 South Dakota Presidential General Election: McCain vs Obama]

In the senate race, democrat Timothy Johnson defeated republican Joel Dykstra.msnbc.com: South Dakota 2008 Election Results

1. 2004: George W. Bush
2. 2000: George W. Bush
3. 1996: Bob Dole
4. 1992: George H. W. Bush

• South Dakota SOS: Official Site

• msnbc.com: South Dakota Exit Polls | United States

• CNN: Economy most important issue, polls show (November 4, 2008)

• WSJ.com: Early Exit Polls Show Voters' Top Concern is Economy (November 4, 2008)

• Real Clear Politics: South Dakota: McCain vs. Obama

• Pollster.com: 2008 North Carolina Presidential General Election

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