Although several states took measures to protect or expand abortion, ballot initiatives expanding those rights failed in South Dakota, Florida and Nebraska. Here's why.

The abortion vote in South Dakota followed the rejection in Florida of a proposed change in its state constitution to protect abortion rights — the first time abortion opponents have won a statewide vote since the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning Roe vs. Wade in June 2022.

Voters in South Dakota and North Dakota have rejected a ballot measure meant to legalize recreational marijuana.

According to unofficial election results from the State Secretary's office, thirty-nine female lawmakers will serve; up eight from the 2023-24 legislature.

The growth in female representation in South Dakota is part of a trend nationally, though most legislatures don’t have gender parity.

Scripps News and Decision Desk HQ project South Dakota will not enshrine abortion protections in its state constitution.