MINOT – North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum stood on stage Wednesday night for a debate with seven other contenders for the Republican presidential nomination. A national television audience heard candidates tout their plans for the future of the United States while pointing fingers and emphasizing differences.
Burgum’s time was limited to less than higher polling candidates, but he used it to convey his message.
“The economy, energy, and national security are all tied together. Of course we’re paying too much for everything, but part of the reason why is the Biden policy on energy,” said Burgum. “There are 1.2 trillion in green energy dollars buried in the inflation creation act.”
The comment drew spirited applause from the large audience in Milwaukee’s Fiserv Arena.
In another moment Burgum said, “We need to get back to freedom and liberty for the people of this country. The feds are stepping into people’s lives, people’s businesses, over and over. The Biden administration is a complete fail.”
Among those watching the debate was Rep. Scott Louser, R-Dis. 5, Minot.
“I was hoping he would have been a little more forceful than he was,” remarked Louser when asked about Burgum’s national stage debut. “I thought he handled himself very well. I don’t think anyone last night was eliminated.”
Rep. Jeff Hoverson, R-Dis. 3, Minot, also commented on Burgum’s night in Milwaukee.
“I don’t know that what he said really gained him a whole lot I don’t think he was hurt or helped,” said Hoverson. “He was at 1% going and and will be at 1% going out, I think.”
Post debate evaluation by various national organizations conclude that Nikki Haley, former United Nations ambassador and South Carolina governor, and political newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy, likely gained the most from Wednesday’s debate.
The next scheduled debate for Republican presidential candidates is September 27 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California.
