BISMARCK—In a press conference during the afternoon of Wednesday, Dec. 15, Senator Rich Wardner, R-Dis. 37, Dickinson, announced he will not seek re-election in 2022. Wardner explained that he made the decision three years ago that this term would be his last, and that this was a bittersweet day for him.
“I have worked hard to help improve the quality of life for all North Dakotans, and I have fought tirelessly for conservative values,” Wardner stated.
“I have worked hard to help improve the quality of life for all North Dakotans, and I have fought tirelessly for conservative values.” Sen. Rich Wardner, R-Dis. 37, Dickinson
Wardner most recently had served as the Senate majority leader. Originally elected to the state House in 1990, he served as representative through 1998. He has served in the Senate ever since then, for a total of more than 30 years in the North Dakota legislature.
Wardner also said, “One of my favorite quotes is from Teddy Roosevelt who said, ‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.’ This adage has encouraged me throughout my time in the legislature and will continue to guide me into this next phase of life.”
Governor Doug Burgum had this to say in a statement following Sen. Wardner’s press conference: “[Sen.] Wardner is and has been a servant leader within both chambers and also an educator and passionate coach. His dedication to improving infrastructure, especially during the Bakken boom, supporting K-12 career academies, higher education and tribal partnerships, and advocating for those working for the state will have a positive impact for generations to come.”
U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, also commented on Sen. Wardner’s announcement: “[Sen. Wardner] is the true gentleman of North Dakota’s legislative history and we are better off because of his servant leadership to our great state.”
Others see Sen. Wardner’s announcement as an opportunity for change within the senate. “I think it is time for new leadership,” said Sen. Oley Larsen, R-Dis. 3, Minot.
It remains to be seen which candidates will throw their hats in the ring for Sen. Wardner’s soon-to-be-vacated senate seat. It also means the next senate assembly must choose a new majority leader after the next election in late 2022. The current assistant majority leader is Sen. Jerry Klein, R-Dis. 14, Fessenden.
