North Dakota- Republican Kelly Armstrong has won election to his first term as Governor of North Dakota, defeating Democrat Merrill Piepkorn and Independent Michael Coachman with more than two-thirds of the vote.
Armstrong, 48, is a 3 term Congressman originally elected in 2018, and was a state legislator before that. A Dickinson native, he would get a law degree from UND before working with family businesses in the oil industry and as a partner at a law firm. He won a competitive primary this Spring, winning the nomination with 73.2% of the vote defeating current Lt. Governor Tammy Miller.
Piepkorn, 75, a state legislator from Fargo and long time radio personality ran finished with some 25% of the vote.
Armstrong will now be challenged to help bring the state together and lead in the challenging months ahead determining a path forward with the state legislature following North Dakota citizens rejection of Measure 4.
Armstrong released the following statement: "Michelle and I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of enthusiasm from across North Dakota. Since the announcement of our campaign in January, we have been humbled by our supporters. Thank you North Dakota for putting your trust and confidence in us. A special thanks to Kjersti and Tom for standing by our side through out this race." said Governor-Elect Kelly Armstrong."North Dakota's greatest resource is our people, we will move our state forward so every kid has the opportunity to call North Dakota home. But we will do it our way, never compromising on what makes this place so special. Together, we will ensure North Dakota remains the best place to live, work, and raise a family."
