Herseth Sandlin: Stimulus Should Help South Dakota

Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin says her vote Wednesday to pass the House's $819 billion economic stimulus bill was a close call for her.  But she says much of her support stems from her belief that action is needed in an ever-worsening economy.

Herseth Sandlin says South Dakota's state government budget deficit and rising unemployment show the need for action. She says the state would get an economic shot in the arm from almost $200 million in highway and bridge projects.

No House Republicans voted for the measure, saying more tax cuts are needed and that it would increase the national debt. 

Herseth Sandlin says it's interesting that her Republican colleagues, quote, "are now finally paying attention to the national debt and the federal deficit."