BISMARCK — A new conservative political force officially launched in North Dakota this week, with organizers of The Freedom League holding their first public press conference at the steps of the North Dakota Capital on Wednesday. Describing itself as a “bold, member-driven movement” operating within the Republican Party, the League says its aim is to educate citizens, equip conservative lawmakers, and build a sustained grassroots infrastructure to both reengage civic interest, and reshape the political direction of the state.
The Freedom League is not a political party, nor just another short-term advocacy group, according to organizers. It is a registered 501(c)(4) nonprofit that plans to serve as a permanent, full-time hub for conservative training, policy engagement, and legislative action by gaining grassroots support. It was founded by District 8 Republican State Rep. SuAnn Olson, Minot City Councilman Mike Blessum, and GOP District 46 Chair Rob Muntz.
“This isn't a think tank. It's not just another advocacy group,” said Blessum during the remarks. “The Freedom League is a member-driven movement, boots on the ground and focused, committed to building real leadership... equipping legislators with institutional knowledge and building principled leadership in every corner of this state."
According to the League’s leadership, its mission is rooted in reviving real civic engagement, something they argue has eroded under both political complacency and a disengaged electorate. Rep. SuAnn Olson pointed to recent legislative failures as justification for the League’s formation, citing a $20 billion state budget and missed opportunities to protect parental rights, property rights, and individual freedoms.
“Even with a Republican supermajority, we failed to uphold the core tenets of our platform,” Olson said. “The Freedom League exists to ensure those who carry the Republican label actually represent the Republican brand.” She said the League will work district by district to help conservatives identify, train, and elect candidates who embody those values.
Interim Executive Director Rob Muntz described the group as a long-term, infrastructure focused effort designed to outlast short-lived political cycles. “Too many groups have come and gone without lasting impact,” Muntz said. “We’re building a full-time, boots on the ground organization that empowers citizens year round, not just in election years.” The League’s programming will include grassroots trainings, mentorship programs, policy briefings, and legislative advocacy all directed by dues-paying members at biennial conventions.
While some attendees questioned how the League would avoid the fate of past conservative factions, Muntz and Blessum emphasized the group’s emphasis on organizing within existing party structures rather than bypassing them. They said the League supports the Republican endorsement process and will work to help districts field principled candidates well before primaries. “This isn’t about picking fights,” Muntz said. “It’s about preparing our people early and backing them with real training and community support.”
The League will hold its first state convention in August, where members will adopt a formal platform and elect a permanent board of directors. Membership is open to individuals and businesses, with tiered options available at freedomleaguend.com. In the months ahead, the League plans to host additional trainings across the state, engage with district leaders, and prepare for the 2026 election cycle. As Muntz put it, “The Freedom League is more than a party, it's an unapologetic movement of like minded conservatives working within the party to create real change."
