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Trump expected to tap North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to be secretary of Interior

By: Michael Achterling, Jeff Beach and Mary Steurer (North Dakota Monitor) President-elect Donald Trump said Thursday he plans to name North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to lead the Department of Interior.  Trump, speaking at Mar-a-Lago Thursday, said he plans to announce Friday that Burgum will be the next interior secretary.…
November 14, 2024
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Trump selects U.S. House member from New York as ambassador to the United Nations

By: Ashley Murray (North Dakota Monitor) WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump has tapped U.S. House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik for the position of United Nations ambassador, according to an exclusive his transition team provided Sunday to the New York Post. Trump told the conservative outlet Stefanik, a New York…
November 11, 2024
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Trump taps former acting ICE director as his new ‘border czar’

By: Ariana Figueroa (North Dakota Monitor) WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump late Sunday announced he will appoint Tom Homan as “border czar” in his administration as Trump seeks to carry out his campaign commitment of mass deportations of immigrants who lack permanent legal status. Homan is the former acting director…
November 11, 2024
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For EPA chief, Trump picks former Congressman Lee Zeldin of New York

By: Ariana Figueroa (North Dakota Monitor) WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump Monday said he will nominate former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York to serve as head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Zeldin, also a former GOP candidate for New York governor, said on social media that it would…
November 11, 2024
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Secretary Burgum? Governor open to a conversation with Trump

By: Michael Achterling (North Dakota Monitor) With the 2024 election in the rearview mirror, the eyes of North Dakotans have shifted to where their outgoing governor may end up in President Donald Trump’s new administration. Gov. Doug Burgum, who endorsed Trump after ending his own presidential campaign and was a…
November 8, 2024
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Jared Hendrix Wins State House Seat in Fargo with Wide Support

FARGO, ND - On Tuesday, Jared Hendrix won a seat in the North Dakota State House in Fargo’s District 10. Winning support amongst a wide swath of voters in one of the most logistically challenging districts in the state. District 10 is a “swing” district, composed of approximately 80% apartment…
November 8, 2024
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Kristin Baesler Wins Re-Election Bid

North Dakota- The race for North Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction has been decided with incumbent Kristen Baesler defeating challenger Jason Heitkamp by about a 57 to 43 margin. Heitkamp, a former City Councilman and Republican state legislator from District 26 was a longshot but ended up running a competitive…
November 5, 2024
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Kevin Cramer Wins 2nd Term in U.S. Senate

North Dakota- Republican Kevin Cramer has won reelection to his second term in the U.S. Senate, defeating Democratic challenger Katrina Christiansen. Cramer, 63, is a former 3 term Congressman before winning election to the Senate in 2018, defeating incumbent Heidi Heitkamp in an extremely tight race. His victory further solidifies…
November 5, 2024
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Kelly Armstrong Wins Bid for Governorship

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.…
November 5, 2024
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A look at how federal plans could make the costs of housing more affordable

By: Casey Quinlan (North Dakota Monitor) As renters and would-be homeowners struggle with the high cost of housing, the Biden administration has announced policies to address this strain on household budgets. That includes $100 million in funding for a program to incentivize affordable housing production and streamlining loan application processes…
August 20, 2024
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29 apply to join North Dakota Ethics Commission

By: Mary Steurer (North Dakota Monitor) The governor’s office received applications from 29 North Dakotans interested in joining the Ethics Commission. The top candidate will fill the open seat left by Chair Paul Richard, who announced plans to retire earlier this year. Members of the Ethics Commission are appointed by…
August 20, 2024
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RFK Jr. May ‘Join Forces’ With Trump Ahead Of Election, Running Mate Says

By Nicole Silverio (Daily Caller News Foundation) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s running mate said on Tuesday that he may “join forces” with Republican nominee Donald Trump ahead of the 2024 election. Kennedy’s running mate, Nicole Shanahan, said on the “Impact Theory” podcast that the campaign is considering suspending itself in…
August 20, 2024
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Minot lawmaker remembered as ‘even keeled,’ great friend across 18 years of public service

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING (North Dakota Monitor) It may have been unconventional to roll a beat-up pickup onto a political convention floor, but that was in character for Rep. Randy Schobinger. In 1996, that was a resounding success for the Minot lawmaker, according to his friend and former campaign staffer. Schobinger,…
August 16, 2024
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Harris Took The Reins On Solving A Key Region’s Migrant Crisis — Nearly 1.8 Million People Crossed Into US Anyway

By JASON HOPKINS (Daily Caller News Foundation) Over a million migrants hailing from Central America have crossed illegally into the U.S. since Vice President Kamala Harris was tapped to address the illegal immigration crisis stemming from that region. Since the launch of her presidential campaign, Harris and her allies have…
August 14, 2024
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EXCLUSIVE: One Rule Has Saved Americans From Billions In Wasteful Government Spending

By: WALLACE WHITE (Daily Caller News Foundation) A rule requiring the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to publish annual reports on wasteful spending has saved billions of taxpayer dollars since 2011, according to an Open the Books report released Wednesday. Former Republican Oklahoma Sen. Tom Coburn amended the Pay-As-You-Go Act of…
August 14, 2024
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Byron Donalds Spars With CNN Host On Whether Trump’s Age Or Harris’ Far-Left Record Is Bigger Concern

By: NICOLE SILVERIO (Daily Caller News Foundation) Republican Florida Rep. Byron Donalds hit back at CNN host Kate Bolduan as she asked him about Republican nominee Donald Trump’s age during a Wednesday segment. Bolduan repeatedly pressed Donalds on whether 78-year-old Trump’s age is a cause for concern for Republicans since President Joe…
August 14, 2024
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JORGE MARTINEZ: Kamala Harris’ Decision Might Have Created The Most Liberal Ticket In American History

Opinion of JORGE MARTINEZ (Daily Caller News Foundation) In a stunning yet unsurprising move, Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate for the upcoming election. This decision cements what may be the most liberal ticket in American history, a combination that prioritizes radical…
August 9, 2024
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City Council Talks Downtown Disturbances

Brian Billingsley addresses City Council
August 6, 2024
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North Dakota Democrats view Walz as ‘champion’ for rural America

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING (North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota Democrats believe Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will be a champion for rural America and reacted positively in the first hours after Kamala Harris picked Walz as her running mate. State House Minority Leader Rep. Zachary Ista, D-Grand Forks, said Walz seems to…
August 6, 2024
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It Turns Out Biden’s Economy Isn’t So ‘Cured’ After All

By OWEN KLINSKY (Daily Caller News Foundation) Fears of a U.S. recession cratered global markets just a matter of days after President Joe Biden declared the economy “cured,” with experts pointing to the lame duck president’s own administration as the driving force behind the turmoil. Global stock prices cratered Monday amid rising fears that the…
August 6, 2024
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‘Republicans for Harris’ rallies members of GOP to campaign for Democratic ticket

BY: ARIANA FIGUEROA (North Dakota Monitor) WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign over the weekend launched a “Republicans for Harris” initiative, as her campaign looks to court moderate GOP voters and others who don’t support former President Donald Trump’s reelection bid for the White House. The Harris team said…
August 5, 2024
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Trump Agrees To Fox News Debate Against Kamala Harris

NICK POPE (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump has agreed to debate Vice President Kamala Harris on Fox News in early September. The debate would be held on Sept. 4 in Pennsylvania at a location to be determined with a live audience, broadcasted on Fox News and moderated…
August 4, 2024
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Property Tax Measure Approved for November Ballot

BY: NORTH DAKOTA MONITOR STAFF  A ballot initiative that would eliminate assessed value property tax was approved for inclusion on the general election ballot by the North Dakota Secretary of State’s Office on Friday. If approved by voters in November, the initiative would prohibit political subdivisions from “levying any tax on…
August 3, 2024
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Minot City Council Hosts Special Budget Q&A with City Staff.

Minot, ND- City Council met in a Special Session the evening of Tuesday July 30th for a Q&A on the 2025 budget between them and City staff. This followed the initial rollout of the 2025 budget by City Manager Harold Stewart on July 16th. City Councilmembers have had 2 weeks…
July 31, 2024
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Coachman approved as independent governor candidate for November ballot

By: North Dakota Monitor staff  Michael Coachman, a U.S. Air Force veteran and repeat candidate for state office, will appear on the November ballot as an independent candidate for governor. The Secretary of State’s Office notified Coachman he was approved for the ballot in a July 15 letter. The Larimore resident…
July 30, 2024
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House Passes Bipartisan Resolution Establishing Trump Assassination Attempt Task Force

The House passed a resolution to form a bipartisan task force on Wednesday to investigate the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13. H.R. 1367, which was spearheaded by House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, passed the House in a unanimous vote. The…
July 28, 2024
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Trump Vows To Continue Outdoor Rallies Despite Secret Service Reportedly Advising Against It

Former President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he will continue holding outdoor rallies despite the U.S. Secret Service reportedly advising him not to earlier this week. In the aftermath of the July 13 assassination attempt on Trump, the Secret Service reportedly encouraged the former president to avoid holding outdoor campaign rallies…
July 28, 2024
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Blinken Reportedly Warns China About Harris’ Stern Views On Relations As Winds Shift Away From Biden

By JAKE SMITH (Daily Caller News Foundation) Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned a top Chinese diplomat on Saturday of Vice President Kamala Harris’ firm stance on U.S.-China diplomacy as the political winds shift away from President Joe Biden, according to The Washington Post. Harris is now the presumptive Democratic…
July 28, 2024
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‘Dumbest Thing I’ve Ever Heard’: James Carville Denies Dems ‘Feel Disenfranchised’ By Harris Becoming De Facto Nominee

By JASON COHEN (Daily Callers News Foundation) Democratic strategist James Carville on Thursday said it is absurd to  suggest Democrats “feel disenfranchised” by the process that made Vice President Harris the party’s presumptive nominee. Harris has secured enough verbal backing from delegates to become the party’s presumptive nominee after President Joe Biden…
July 28, 2024
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Members of Congress condemn violence after shots seemingly fired at Trump rally

BY: (North Dakota Monitor) ASHLEY MURRAY AND JENNIFER SHUTT  WASHINGTON — Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trump’s campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage. Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed,…
July 13, 2024
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Trump Apparently Wounded, 2 Reported Dead In Rally Shooting

By RYAN MEILSTRUP (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump was whisked off the stage by Secret Service on Saturday at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after multiple rounds of gunfire could be heard. The former president gestured to the crowd with a fist before being escorted off the…
July 13, 2024
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North Dakota counties report absentee ballots with missing postmarks

BY: AMY DALRYMPLE (North Dakota Monitor) At least five North Dakota counties received absentee ballots through the mail that were missing postmarks, a situation Secretary of State Michael Howe calls “completely unacceptable.”  The Burleigh County Canvassing Board voted 5-4 on Monday morning to accept 58 ballots that were received by…
June 25, 2024
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Complaint alleges Stutsman County election worker failed to initial ballots

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING AND AMY DALRYMPLE (North Dakota Monitor) JAMESTOWN, N.D. – An election judge in Stutsman County is under investigation for failing to initial multiple ballots given to voters during North Dakota’s primary election on June 11. Secretary of State Michael Howe said a complaint that’s under review also…
June 25, 2024
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Former North Dakota lawmaker to plead guilty to child sex tourism charge

BY: AMY DALRYMPLE (North Dakota Monitor) Former North Dakota state Sen. Ray Holmberg has signed an agreement indicating he will plead guilty to a child sex tourism charge. A plea agreement filed in U.S. District Court on Monday says Holmberg will voluntarily plead guilty to a charge of traveling with…
June 25, 2024
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Trump Pulling Close To Even In Blue State That Hasn’t Voted Republican In Half A Century

By REBEKA ZELJKO (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump is closing in on President Joe Biden in Minnesota, a state that hasn’t voted for a Republican president in over 50 years, according to several recent polls. Trump is tied with Biden at 45% in Minnesota, according to an Emerson College…
June 25, 2024
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NDGOP governor candidates Armstrong, Miller report comparable primary war chests

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING (North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota Republican-endorsed governor candidate Rep. Kelly Armstrong reported four times the number of large-dollar donors as his Republican competitor Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller in their quests to become the state’s next governor. The candidates’ pre-primary campaign financial disclosures with the Secretary of State’s…
May 18, 2024
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Federal bill on noncitizen voting could have unique impact for North Dakota

BY: MARY STEURER (North Dakota Monitor) A U.S. House bill to require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections could have unintended consequences for North Dakota, the only state that does not require voter registration. The proposal — brought forward by House Speaker Mike Johnson on May 8 —…
May 17, 2024
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Gov. Doug Burgum attends Trump trial, calls it ‘election interference’

BY: ASHLEY MURRAY AND MICHAEL ACHTERLING (North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, on Donald Trump’s shortlist for vice presidential picks, appeared in the Manhattan courtroom Tuesday alongside the former president who is on trial for allegedly falsifying business records in relation to hush money paid to porn star…
May 16, 2024
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House Republicans Reportedly Plan Pushback Against Biden’s Pause On Israel Arms Transfer

By JASON COHEN (Daily Caller News Foundation) The GOP-led House is gearing up for a comprehensive push to counter President Joe Biden’s halt on weapon transfers to Israel in its war against terrorist group Hamas, Axios reported on Saturday. The Biden administration delayed sending military equipment to Israel after warning the U.S. ally to…
May 11, 2024
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Trump Campaign, RNC File Lawsuit In Battleground State To Stop Counting Ballots Past Election Day

By MARY LOU MASTERS (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee (RNC) filed a lawsuit on Friday against the Nevada Secretary of State for allowing mail-in ballots to be counted after election day. Nevada currently permits such ballots to be counted that are…
May 4, 2024
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Army, Marines Barreling Toward One Of The Deadliest And Costliest Years For Aviation Accidents

By MICAELA BURROW (Daily Caller News Foundation) Incidents of the costliest and most deadly aviation accidents among Army and Marine Corps surged in the past year, data reviewed by the Daily Caller News Foundation shows, as the Pentagon maintains it is making progress toward minimizing the most serious mishaps. Both…
April 30, 2024
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Biden Admin Locks In Regulations Targeting Appliance Owned By ‘Almost Every US Household’

The Department of Energy (DOE) finalized regulations Tuesday for a popular appliance that will push the market toward adopting heat pump technology. The DOE’s final energy efficiency regulations for water heaters will apply to common electrical water heaters and significantly increase the share of those models that use heat pumps, according to the…
April 30, 2024
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RFK Jr. Is Poised To Tilt The Presidential Race — But It’s Still Not Clear To Whom

Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to influence the outcome of the 2024 rematch between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, but it’s still not evident from whom he will pull more support. Since Kennedy switched his party affiliation from Democrat to independent in October, polling has largely…
April 28, 2024
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‘Trial By Ambush’: Former Federal Prosecutors Say Alvin Bragg’s Strategy Is Unlike Anything They’ve Seen Before

By KATELYNN RICHARDSON (Daily Caller News Foundation) When defendants go on trial, the allegations against them are generally clear. Not so with former President Donald Trump and his “hush money” case. Prosecutors in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office offered new transparency not only to the public, but seemingly also…
April 24, 2024
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Armstrong, Miller debate shows difference of personality but not policy

BY: MARY STEURER (North Dakota Monitor) When two Republican candidates for governor of North Dakota — Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller and U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong — squared off in a Tuesday evening debate on Prairie Public, they appeared to agree more often than not. The candidates both held themselves out…
April 24, 2024
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Senate Passes Foreign Aid Package, Bill That Could Ban TikTok

By MARY LOU MASTERS (Daily Caller News Foundation) The Democratic-controlled Senate voted to pass House Republican Speaker Mike Johnson’s foreign aid supplemental on Tuesday that provides billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, as well as language that could trigger a ban on the social media app TikTok.…
April 23, 2024
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Judge In Bragg Trial Tells Trump Attorney He Is ‘Losing All Credibility’

By KATELYNN RICHARDSON (Daily Caller News Foundation) Judge Juan Merchan told former President Donald Trump’s defense attorney that he is “losing all credibility” Tuesday during a hearing to consider alleged violations of the gag order imposed on his client. Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche argued that Trump did not violate the…
April 23, 2024
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Baesler says NDGOP doesn’t reflect voters’ views on education

By MARY STEURER (North Dakota Monitor) Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler said Republicans at the recent state convention showed they are out of touch on education. This is the first year Baesler is running for superintendent without official support from the NDGOP. Though superintendent is a nonpartisan job, candidates…
April 23, 2024
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‘Too Little, Too Late’: Congress’ $60 Billion Aid Package Won’t Get Ukraine Off The Ropes, Experts Say

by JAKE SMITH (The Daily Caller News Foundation) Congress’ new $60 billion aid package is unlikely to move the needle in Ukraine’s war against Russia, experts told the Daily Caller News Foundation. The House overwhelmingly voted to pass the $60.8 billion package on Saturday that aims to bolster Ukraine’s war…
April 22, 2024
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Biden Admin Wants To Send American Tax Dollars To Train Army Of Transgender Activists In India

by ROBERT SCHMAD The Biden administration wants to train at least 200 activists to advocate for transgender rights in India as part of a program ostensibly designed to advance America’s “national interests,” according to a federal grant posting. President Joe Biden’s State Department plans to “train at least 200 LGBTQI+…
April 22, 2024
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Plaintiffs in gender-affirming care lawsuit seek testimony from lawmakers about anti-LGBTQ bias

MARY STEURER (North Dakota Monitor) Plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging North Dakota’s ban on gender-affirming medical care for minors seek to question two lawmakers about their motivation for sponsoring the legislation. Attorneys for Gender Justice, the advocacy group representing the plaintiffs, in March sought to order Rep. Bill Tveit, R-Hazen,…
April 21, 2024
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‘Clear Violation Of The Law’: Biden’s Multi-Billion Dollar Broadband Plan Defies Congressional Mandate, Experts Say

The Biden administration’s program to expand access to broadband internet may run afoul of the law that created it, experts told the Daily Caller News Foundation. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), part of the Department of Commerce, is responsible for allocating $42.5 billion in funds intended to bolster the United…
April 21, 2024
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Villafana Announces for Dis. 34 House

David Villafana release MANDAN -- David Villafana proudly declares his candidacy for District 34 House inMandan.A graduate of the University of Mary with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Villafanahas become a successful software engineer, serving the financial and energy sectors.Villafana’s engineering background equips him with an understanding of the…
April 11, 2024
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Jared Hendrix Announces Campaign for State House in Fargo’s District 10

FARGO, ND - Today, Jared Hendrix launched his campaign for State House in District 10 in Fargo. On April 2nd, he was endorsed by local Republicans. “North Dakota has tremendous opportunities. We have all we need for success and self sufficiency – agriculture, oil, coal, water aquifers, rail infrastructure, a…
April 4, 2024
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Ramaswamy Endorses Rick Becker

Rick Becker release North Dakota (April 1, 2024) — Today, former Republican candidate for President Vivek Ramaswamy releases the following statement officially announcing his endorsement of Dr. Rick Becker for Congress: “The U.S. government is giving massive taxpayer money to companies to build a CO₂ pipeline across the Midwest, including…
April 1, 2024
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ND Age Limits Amendment Bound for Ballot

Retire Congress ND Meets Threshold for Ballot Initiative FARGO -- Retire Congress North Dakota announces that its proposed amendment to the North Dakota state Constitution that would prohibit anyone from North Dakota over aged 80 from serving in Congress will be on the June 11th primary ballot. The proposed amendment,…
March 20, 2024
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Burlingame Announces for City Council

Scott Burlingame release MINOT — Scott Burlingame, incumbent member of the Minot City Council formally declares his candidacy for re-election, vowing to continue his tireless efforts in serving the community and advancing its interests.Having been elected to fill an unexpired term on City Council in November 2022, Burlingame has been…
March 13, 2024
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Dis. 40 Republicans Endorse Candidates

Dis. 40 release MINOT -- The District 40 Republicans held their endorsing convention on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 6:30 PM, where they endorsed their candidates for the upcoming elections. Jose Castaneda secured the endorsement for Senate, while Incumbent Matt Ruby and Macy Bolinske were both endorsed for House of…
March 13, 2024
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Sen. Cramer Denounces Biden Speech

Responds to President’s 2024 State of the Union Address WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, issued the following statement after President Biden delivered his 2024 State of the Union address. “I thought it was the worst State of the Union address I have ever listened to or sat through. We…
March 8, 2024
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Trump Wins ND Caucus

ND Republican Party release Sandi Sanford, Chairwoman of the North Dakota Republican Party, announced the results of the North Dakota Republican Presidential Caucus late Monday evening. Vote results of the caucus are: Donald Trump with 84% (29 delegates) 1,933 turned out for the caucus, which the Republican Party had been…
March 5, 2024
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Court Decision on Removing Trump from the Presidential Ballot

Sen. Kevin Cramer reacts BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States unanimously allowed Donald Trump to remain on Colorado’s presidential ballot, rejecting partisan attempts to sway the 2024 election. “The Supreme Court did its job, unanimously disagreeing with…
March 4, 2024
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Enget Wins Republican Convention in Dis. 2

Dis. 2 Republicans release TIOGA – Mark Enget was elected unanimously by local Republicans to be the States Senate candidate for District 2 on February 24th in Tioga. Hundreds attended the endorsing convention.In his campaign, Mark has stated the importance of respecting our “God-given, constitutional rights to life, liberty, and…
February 26, 2024
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Dan Ruby, District 38 House of Representatives

Join us for a stimulating discussion as we sit down with District 38 House of Representatives Incumbent, Dan Ruby, on The Dakotan's Election Central. We dive into pressing topics such as property taxes, term limits, and the key issues facing North Dakota. Don't miss this engaging conversation that provides valuable…
February 25, 2024
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ND Legacy Fund, Taxes, Term Limits with Senate Majority Leader David Hogue

Join us for a compelling discussion with Senate Majority Leader David Hogue from District 38 in North Dakota. As part of The Dakotan's Election Central, we explore key topics including the North Dakota Legacy Fund, Property Taxes, and Term Limits. Senator Hogue also shares his views on the role of…
February 24, 2024
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Diane Larson, District 30 Senate Incumbent

In this insightful interview, join us as we sit down with Incumbent Senator Diane Larson, who is running for re-election in North Dakota's District 30. We delve into the complexities of term limits affecting the state legislature, Senator Larson's unwavering advocacy for her community, and the intriguing dynamics surrounding her…
February 23, 2024
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Burgum endorses Miller in North Dakota governor’s race against Rep. Armstrong

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING - FEBRUARY 21, 2024 (North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum on Wednesday endorsed Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller to be his successor, referencing her similarity to Donald Trump as a political outsider and business leader. Miller announced her run for governor last week. She will compete against Republican U.S. Rep. Kelly…
February 22, 2024
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Jose Castaneda, District 40 Senate Candidate

In this insightful interview, Jonathan Starr sits down with Jose Castaneda, candidate for District 40 Senate, to discuss his campaign and key issues. Jose shares his perspectives on personal liberty, taxes, and more, offering a compelling vision for the future. Don't miss this engaging conversation about politics and policy in…
February 22, 2024
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Ronald Westberry, District 40 House Candidate

Join us for a candidate interview as we sit down with Ronald Westberry, District 40 House Candidate, as part of The Dakotan's Election Central Coverage. Ronald shares insights into his campaign, discusses key issues, and explains his motivation for running. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of his platform…
February 21, 2024
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Minot Legislator Proposes Tax Revision

Alternative to Initiated Measure MINOT – There's a better way to do it. That was the message delivered by Rep. Scott Louser, R-Dis. 5, Minot, during a press conference held at the City Auditorium. Louser has penned a 23-page bill that he hopes to introduce to the 2025 legislative session.…
February 21, 2024
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Olson Seeks District 38 House Seat

Lisa Olson announces that she is seeking election, as a Republican, to the State House of Representatives from District 38. She currently serves on Minot’s City Council; a seat that she was originally elected to in 2010. Throughout her tenure on city council, she has been elected Council Vice President…
February 20, 2024
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US Congress Candidate, Trygve Hammer discusses campaign, federal aid bill, and more

In this exclusive interview, North Dakota US Congress Candidate, Trygve Hammer, sits down to discuss his campaign, the recently passed $95 billion federal aid bill, and more. Get a firsthand look at his vision for North Dakota and the nation, and hear his perspectives on crucial issues facing our communities…
February 20, 2024
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Spending, Immigration, and War - Dr. Rick Becker, US Congress Candidate, breaks it down

Dr. Rick Becker joins The Conversation, as part of The Dakotan's Election Central Coverage, to talk about the top issues that are facing the US and North Dakota. The recent 95 billion dollar foreign aid bill is discussed along with some North Dakota Politics. He rejects the idea of him…
February 19, 2024
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Dis. 14 Endorses Republican Trio

STEELE – Karisa Grothe, Larry Danduran and Jason Steidl were unanimously endorsed by local Republicans at the District 14 Legislative Endorsing convention in Steele on Sunday, February 18th. Grothe is endorsed for the State Senate seat, while Danduran and Steidl are each endorsed for the two State House seats. “It…
February 19, 2024
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Charles Tuttle, District 40 Senate Candidate

Join us for an insightful conversation with Charles Tuttle as he discusses his race for District 40 Senate. Charles shares his motivations for running, reflects on past campaigns, and dives into various topics that shape his vision for the future. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of his journey…
February 16, 2024
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Aaron West, District 40 House Candidate

In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Aaron West, a candidate running for the District 40 House of Representatives seat. With a background in law enforcement, Aaron shares his compelling journey, motivations for running, and key issues driving his campaign. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding…
February 16, 2024
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Bolinske Announces Dis. 40 Run

Macy Bolinske release Macy Bolinske announces her candidacy for the open North Dakota House of Representatives seat in District 40 in Minot. Macy Bolinske grew up in Minot, North Dakota, graduated from Bishop Ryan Catholic School and went on to get a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University…
February 15, 2024
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Miller to Run for Governor

Tammy Miller release Doug Burgum’s Lt. Governor Tammy Miller Launches Campaign for GovernorMiller is a Business Leader Who Will Keep North Dakota’s Growth and Success Going Lt. Governor Tammy Miller launched her campaign for Governor today vowing to build on the successes of the Burgum administration and keep North Dakota’s…
February 15, 2024
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Dems Are Quietly Telling Team Biden He Has To Be Out In Public More After Special Counsel Report

Nick Pope on February 10, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Democrats are quietly pushing President Joe Biden’s aides to have the president engage more frequently with the public following Thursday night’s turbulent press conference in response to a special counsel report, according to Politico. In his report assessing whether Biden previously…
February 10, 2024
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District 2 Senate Candidate, Mark Enget

Jonathan Starr has an insightful conversation with Mark Enget as they delve into his campaign for the District 2 Senate Seat. Explore Mark's professional journey, his political aspirations, and the initiatives he plans to champion if elected into office. Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, community, and the…
February 10, 2024
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Jose Castaneda Announces Dis. 40 Candidacy

MINOT – Jose Castaneda announces his candidacy for the District 40 seatin the North Dakota Senate that was held by retiring longtime Minot area lawmaker KarenKrebsbach. Jose and his wife Feliciana have eight wonderful children that range in age from 14to 23.Jose was born Mexico City and his family legally…
February 9, 2024
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‘They Are Being Very Crafty’: Sol Wisenberg Says Biden Special Counsel Report Implies ‘Really Limited Mental Capacity’

Harold Hutchison on February 8, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former deputy independent counsel Sol Wisenberg called out special counsel Robert Hur’s report for being “crafty” in deciding not to charge President Joe Biden over possession of classified material. Special counsel Robert Hur’s report released Thursday found President Joe Biden deliberately kept classified…
February 8, 2024
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American Billionaires Bankrolled Activist Crusade Against Natural Gas Hubs Before Biden Signed Off On Approval Pause

Nick Pope on February 8, 2024 American billionaires bankrolled an activist campaign targeting liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals that influenced the White House’s decision to pause new and pending approvals for the projects, according to The Wall Street Journal. The philanthropic organizations of the Rockefeller family and Democratic megadonor Michael…
February 8, 2024
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Supreme Court Seems to Have Doubts About Kicking Trump Off the Ballot

Katelynn Richardson on February 8, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Nearly every Supreme Court justice expressed reservations Thursday about allowing a single state to remove former President Donald Trump from the 2024 election ballot. The justices heard oral arguments Thursday for Trump’s appeal of the Colorado Supreme Court’s December decision to disqualify him…
February 8, 2024
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District 38 House Candidate, Lisa Hermosillo

Join us for an engaging conversation with Lisa Hermosillo, the District 38 Democrat House Candidate, as she discusses her campaign and vision for the district. Gain insights into her motivations, key policy priorities, and the changes she hopes to bring to the community. Discover what drives her passion for public…
February 8, 2024
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District 40 Representative, Matt Ruby

Join us in The Dakotan Studio as we welcome District 40 Representative, Matt Ruby, for an engaging discussion on the dynamic landscape of North Dakota politics. Delve into the latest updates and insights on the developments within District 40, as we explore the pressing issues and initiatives shaping our community.…
February 7, 2024
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Republicans, Conservatives React To Failed Mayorkas Impeachment

Harold Hutchison on February 6, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Republicans and conservatives reacted furiously Tuesday after a resolution to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas failed to pass in the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives voted against impeaching Mayorkas 216-214, after Republican Reps. Ken Buck of Colorado, Tom McClintock…
February 6, 2024
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DCNF Reporter Lays Out Biden Admin’s Censorship Funding

Katelynn Richardson on February 6, 2024 During the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government hearing, Richardson detailed her findings that the multi-million dollar program, which she dubbed a “Censorship Industrial Complex,” used taxpayer dollars to fund numerous projects that censored American speech.” “The effort fits within the broader trend…
February 6, 2024
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Senator Cramer Statement on Border Legislation

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement regarding the Senate border security and supplemental funding bill. “After reading the text, there are some really good policies I wish we could have, and I’m sure Donald Trump would love to have, but this bill provides too many…
February 6, 2024
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Andrew Schultz, District 40 Senate Candidate, discusses his reasons for running

Jonathan Starr sits down with Andrew Schultz, District 40 Senate Candidate, about his upcoming race for the open Senate seat after the retirement of Karen Kresbach. Schultz discusses his past political experiences, his reasons for running, and more in this action packed episode.
February 2, 2024
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New Filings Show Which Campaigns Are Raking In The Cash As The Race For The White House Heats Up

Mary Lou Masters on February 1, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Presidential candidates end-of-year financial reports released Wednesday reveal which remaining campaigns have staying-power through the November general election. Joe Biden’s reelection campaign brought in the most during the fourth quarter of 2023, followed by former President Donald Trump and former…
February 1, 2024
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Former Border Patrol And ICE Officials Refute Biden’s Border Claim

Jennie Taer on February 1, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) President Joe Biden claimed Tuesday that he doesn’t have the “power” to fix the crisis at the southern border, but four former federal border and immigration enforcement officials told the Daily Caller News Foundation that he in fact does have the…
February 1, 2024
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Democrat Trygve Hammer to challenge Armstrong for House seat

Democrat Trygve Hammer filed to run for North Dakota’s 2024 U.S. House race, vowing the time for Democrats “retreating” is over.  Hammer’s Jan. 2 candidacy filing with the Federal Election Commission is early in the election cycle, which was by design, according to his campaign manager, so they can raise…
January 31, 2024
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Democrat announces run for North Dakota governor

North Dakota Democrats have their first announced candidate to run for governor in 2024.  Travis Hipsher of Neche will try to be the first Democrat since 1988 to win the governor’s race.  “I don’t know how to classify myself except as a centrist,” Hipsher told the North Dakota Monitor on…
January 31, 2024
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Fed Continues Rate Pause With Cuts On The Horizon

Will Kessler on January 31, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) The Federal Reserve announced on Wednesday that it would not change its benchmark federal funds rate, but does project rate cuts later this year. The Fed’s decision not to raise rates keeps the target range between 5.25% and 5.50%, the highest…
January 31, 2024
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Three Announce for City Council

Trio proclaims “We Can Do Better” in the City of Minot MIN OT -- Mike Blessum, Rob Fuller, and Scott Samuelson announce their candidacies for alderman seats on the Minot City Council. The trio intends to run as a team to provide unified messaging and plans for the future of…
January 31, 2024

Hermosillo Seeks Nod in District 38

Lisa Hermosillo has announced she will be seeking the Democratic-NPL endorsement to the North Dakota House of Representatives for District 38. Growing up on a 3rd generation family farm, Hermosillo understands firsthand what farmers bring to our economy and communities. Farm life taught her the value of discipline and good…
January 31, 2024
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Trump Could Face Completely Unprecedented Punishment In Civil Fraud Trial, Analysis Finds

Katelynn Richardson on January 30, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Trump’s real estate empire is the only big business that has been threatened with dissolution under New York’s anti-fraud law without clear victims or loss, an Associated Press analysis found. In reviewing close to 150 civil cases spanning 70 years, the…
January 30, 2024
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China Made Pinky-Promise To Biden Not To Interfere In 2024 Elections

Jake Smith on January 30, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) China recently promised the Biden administration that it would not interfere in the U.S. 2024 presidential elections, CNN reported on Tuesday. Chinese President Xi Jinping assured President Joe Biden in November that his country would not meddle in the 2024 elections,…
January 30, 2024
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Mark Enget Seeks District 2 State Senate Seat

POWERS LAKE, ND – Today, Mark Enget announced his campaign for the North Dakota State Senate in District 2. “North Dakota is a great place to live, and my desire is to keep it that way and preserve our values, culture and way of life. That means strong and family-friendly…
January 29, 2024
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Tom Campbell pivots to US House race against Becker, Hammer

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING - JANUARY 26, 2024 (North Dakota Monitor) Former North Dakota state senator Tom Campbell now plans to run for the state’s at-large U.S. House seat instead of governor. Campbell said in an interview Friday he had been planning on running for governor in 2024, but when current North Dakota…
January 27, 2024
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Trump Notches Massive Lead Against Haley In Her Home State: POLL

Mary Lou Masters on January 26, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump has a massive 27-point lead against former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley for her home state’s primary, a Friday poll found. Trump is ahead of Haley 58% to 31%, with 11% of likely GOP primary voters…
January 27, 2024
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‘Election Interference’: Republicans Rip Verdict In Trump Defamation Case

Harold Hutchison on January 26, 2024 Republicans blasted the verdict in a defamation case against former President Donald Trump Friday. A Manhattan jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million in compensatory and punitive damages Friday after he criticized her during a May 2023 town hall on CNN, after he was found liable for defamation and sexual battery in a…
January 26, 2024
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3 Bismarck Republican lawmakers skip local endorsing convention

BY: MICHAEL ACHTERLING AND AMY DALRYMPLE - JANUARY 25, 2024 (North Dakota Monitor) Three Bismarck Republican incumbent lawmakers skipped their district endorsing convention Wednesday, highlighting the division within the state Republican Party. Attendees expressed disapproval for incumbents Sen. Diane Larson, Rep. Mike Nathe and Rep. Glenn Bosch through a censure…
January 26, 2024
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Draft Resolution to Declare Trump Presumptive Nominee Withdrawn

Mary Lou Masters on January 26, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) A draft resolution to declare former President Donald Trump the presumptive GOP nominee was withdrawn just hours after it was proposed on Thursday evening, the Daily Caller News Foundation confirmed. David Bossie, a committeeman for the Republican National Committee (RNC), proposed that…
January 26, 2024
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Trump Joins Motion To Dismiss Racketeering Case, Disqualify Fani Willis Over Alleged Misconduct

Katelynn Richardson on January 25, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former President Donald Trump moved Thursday to adopt a co-defendant’s motion to dismiss the Georgia racketeering case and disqualify District Attorney Fani Willis for alleged misconduct. Co-defendant Michael Roman claimed in a Jan. 8 motion that Willis awarded a “lucrative” contract to her…
January 26, 2024
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Biden, Harris vow to restore protections for abortion rights as 2024 campaign launches

BY: JENNIFER SHUTT - JANUARY 23, 2024 (North Dakota Monitor) President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris moved abortion access to the forefront of their reelection bid Tuesday by making it the centerpiece of their first joint campaign rally of the 2024 election cycle. “With your voice, with your…
January 25, 2024
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Republicans Rush To Defend Greg Abbott Amid Border Standoff With Biden

Arjun Singh on January 25, 2024 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Many elected Republicans have issued statements of support for Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas after an order from the Supreme Court of the United States permitting the Biden administration to remove the state’s razor wire barrier placed along the international…
January 25, 2024
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Trump win in New Hampshire sets up rematch with Biden

BY: JACOB FISCHLER, ARIANA FIGUEROA AND JENNIFER SHUTT - JANUARY 24, 2024 (North Dakota Monitor) WASHINGTON — Leading Republicans — and the Biden presidential campaign — on Wednesday rushed to identify former President Donald Trump as the presumptive GOP nominee after he won decisively in New Hampshire’s Republican presidential primary. Trump bested Nikki Haley,…
January 24, 2024
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Kelly Armstrong Announces Run for Governor

Bismarck, N.D. – North Dakota Congressman Kelly Armstrong today released the following statement announcing his candidacy for Governor of North Dakota. “For the past five years as your Congressman, I’ve been fighting for North Dakota in DC. I have fought against federal overreach, a two-tiered justice system, and a radical…
January 24, 2024
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Becker Announces Bid for Congress

Seeks Rep. Kelly Armstong's Seat Rick Becker release Washington, DC is packed with corrupt politicians more concerned with funding foreign conflicts than addressing the issues we face here at home. The only solution is to elect proven conservative fighters who have a record of standing up to the establishment and…
January 22, 2024
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Legislative Support for End Property Tax Petition

End Unfair Property Tax release BISMARCK — Representative Jim Kasper, (D46) Fargo, and End Unfair Property Tax Chairman Rick Becker have announced a coalition of dedicated public servants including legislators, former legislators, and 2024 legislative candidates have joined to publicly endorse a crucial initiated measure aimed at implementing much needed…
January 18, 2024
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Senators Introduce Bill to Allow States to Secure Border

Sen. Kevin Cramer release WASHINGTON – Since President Biden took office in 2021, there have been at least eight million illegal border crossings into the United States and more than 5 million apprehensions at the southern border. Along the southern border, Texas and Arizona have constructed temporary barriers made out…
January 11, 2024
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City Rejects Human Relations Ordinance 

Proponents Called Cowards  MINOT – By a 4-3 vote the City Council rejected a Human Relations Committee ordinance enacted in 1976. The vote also tossed aside a new ordinance drafted by an Ad Hoc committee tasked with reviewing the issue.  The matter had been contentious and Monday’s council meeting was…
December 19, 2023
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Sen. Cramer Blasts MAFB Message

BISMARCK — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), issued the following statement after Minot Air Force Base leadership sent a message to servicemembers warning them of the dangers associated with being near the Dakota Patriot Rally held at the state fairgrounds in Minot.…
November 21, 2023
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Senate Passes Funding Bill to Avert a Government Shutdown, Extend Farm Bill

Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-ND, release WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statements after voting for the Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act. This continuing resolution (CR), which passed the Senate by a vote of 87 to 11, extends funding in the Agriculture, Energy and Water,…
November 16, 2023
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Gavin Newsom Says Biden Admin Told Him Not To Bring Up Human Rights Abuses With Xi, Focus On Climate Change

Nick Pope on October 30, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom said that the State Department advised him not to bring up human rights abuses with Chinese President Xi Jinping while he was visiting the country this past week, according to an interview shared on X, formerly…
October 30, 2023
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Benjamin Netanyahu Announces Second Phase Of War Against Hamas Has Begun

Jason Cohen on October 28, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the Israel-Hamas conflict a “second war of independence” and pledged to annihilate the terrorist group Hamas in his first speech since the country expanded its ground operations in Gaza on Friday. Netanyahu stated that the…
October 29, 2023
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Biden’s Green Agenda Is Making Every Part Of Owning A Home More Expensive, Watchdog Says

Will Kessler on October 27, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) President Joe Biden’s climate proposals will substantially increase average Americans’ home expenses for purchases like appliances, according to data from the Alliance For Consumers (AFC). The financial burden of the Biden administration’s policies targeting household appliances totals $9,166 in new costs…
October 28, 2023
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‘I Have No Regrets’: Mike Pence Drops Out Of Presidential Race

Ryan Meilstrup on October 28, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) Former Vice President Mike Pence announced he was ending his presidential campaign on Saturday during a speech in Las Vegas. “After much prayer and deliberation, I have decided to suspend my campaign for president effective today,” Pence said at the Republican…
October 28, 2023
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Senators Concerned Regarding Critical Minerals Trade Agreement

WASHINGTON – U. S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, co-led a bipartisan letter expressing several concerns regarding a potential critical mineral free trade agreement between the United States and Indonesia. The letter follows reports that the Biden administration is in negotiations…
October 25, 2023
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NDFU urges lawmakers to retain funding for fertilizer production

JAMESTOWN – As the state legislature reconvenes today to reauthorize components of an Office of Management and Budget legislative bill that was ruled unconstitutional by the N.D. State Supreme Court, North Dakota Farmers Union is urging lawmakers to retain a program designed to support in-state fertilizer production. “Expanding in-state fertilizer…
October 23, 2023
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End Property Tax Effort Ongoing 

Drive to Bring Initiated Measure to Voters  BISMARCK – It is still in the early stages but the effort to end North Dakota’s property tax appears to be gaining momentum. The End Unfair Property Tax movement hopes to obtain 45,000 signatures from North Dakotans to place an initiated measure before…
October 10, 2023
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Pentagon Sends Largest Aircraft Carrier To The Middle East, Says Military Aid Will Soon Reach Israel

By Micaela Burrow  (Daily Caller News Foundation) The Pentagon will send aircraft and its largest aircraft carrier to the Eastern Mediterranean in a show of force to support Israel in its war against Hamas terrorists, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said in a statement Sunday. The Pentagon will begin transferring an unspecified…
October 8, 2023
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Sen. Cramer Statement on Senate Passage of Funding Bill to Avert a Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement after voting to support the House of Representatives’ 45-day funding bill. This legislation overwhelmingly passed the Senate with a vote of 88 to 9, averting a federal government shutdown at midnight. The bill extends current government funding levels until…
October 1, 2023
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House Passes Short-Term Government Funding Bill Seeking To Avoid Shutdown

Katelynn Richardson on September 30, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) The House of Representatives voted to pass a 45-day short-term spending bill Saturday, potentially staving off a government shutdown. The “Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act” was passed by a 335-91 vote. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced Saturday morning the…
September 30, 2023
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“He Gets It” 

Gov. Burgum’s Second Debate  North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum did his best to make an impression with a national viewing audience despite limited minutes in the latest Republican presidential candidate debate. The debate was held Wednesday evening at the Ronald Reagen Center in California.  FOX Business host Charles Payne, in…
September 28, 2023
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Biden Admin Proposes Rule Requiring States To ‘Transfer’ Kids From Foster Homes That Don’t ‘Support’ Gender Identity

Lillian Tweten on September 27, 2023 (Daily Caller News Foundation) The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a proposed rule Wednesday that would require states to “transfer” foster children from families who do not support their “gender identity,” a copy of the rule showed. Under the proposed rule,…
September 28, 2023
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‘It Will Get Them Nowhere’: Fox Business Host Warns GOP Candidates To Not Spend Whole Debate Attacking Trump

Harold Hutchison on September 27, 2023 (provided by The Daily Caller News Foundation) Fox Business host Larry Kudlow warned Republican presidential candidates attending Wednesday’s debate not to attack former President Donald Trump. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, former Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, former Vice…
September 27, 2023
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Burgum Qualifies for Second Debate 

Republican National Committee Approval Needed  MINOT – Several national sources are confirming that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, a Republican candidate for President of the United States, has met the qualifying criteria necessary to participate in the second Republican presidential debate scheduled for Wednesday of this week.  FOX News, which…
September 25, 2023
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Legislation to Prevent Declaration of National Emergency for Purposes of Imposing Gun Control

Sen. Kevin Cramer release WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined his colleagues in reintroducing the Protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Act, which would prohibit gun control being imposed through a national emergency declaration by the President or a public health emergency declaration by the Secretary…
September 22, 2023
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‘The Last Thing I Would Do’: Trump Says He’s Unlikely To Pardon Himself If He Wins In 2024

Arjun Singh (The Daily Caller News Foundation) on September 15, 2023 Former President Donald Trump said that he’s unlikely to pardon himself if he is re-elected president in 2024, even though he could have done so in 2021, according to an interview with NBC News on Thursday. Trump is the leading candidate for…
September 18, 2023
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Citizens Confront City Council President 

Angered by Property Tax, Proposed Sales Tax  MINOT – City Council President Paul Pitner’s letter to fellow council members did not go over well with city residents who voiced their opposition during Tuesday’s council meeting. Pitner wrote the letter of recommendation on the 2024 city budget.  Among the issues that…
September 6, 2023
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Tour, Press Conference Highlight Abandoned Keystone XL Pipeline

Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-ND release SCRANTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, participated in an Americans for Prosperity press conference and a guided tour through the Keystone XL Pipeline boneyard, which houses pipe segments originally intended…
August 28, 2023
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Reaction to Burgum on National Stage 

8 in Republican Presidential Debate  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…
August 24, 2023
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From ER to National Debate

Will Take to National Stage Tonight  UPDATE: FOX news reports Doug Burgum will be on the Republican debate stage tonight 8/23/2023. UPDATE: Sources report Burgum suffered a torn Achillies tendon and will need the support of crutches during an afternoon debate stage walk-through. No decision has been made as to…
August 23, 2023
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Biden Administration Releases $6 Billion to Iran

Senators Demand Answers on Secret Negotiation WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Development, joined his Senate Republican colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen demanding answers regarding the approximately…
August 21, 2023
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Bismarck Man Touts End to Property Tax 

Cites Immoral Process and Legislative Overspending  MINOT – Former state legislator from Bismarck and previous independent candidate for U.S. Senate, Rick Becker, promoted his latest endeavor during a gathering in the city Wednesday evening.  At the former Columbian Club on North Broadway, Becker explained why he is heading up “End…
August 17, 2023
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End Property Tax to Appear in Minot 

Goal to Achieve Tax Relief  MINOT – It is a bold plan triggered by those who believe North Dakota’s property tax is unjust.  End Unfair Property Tax, an organization led by Dr. Rick Becker, Bismarck, is in the process of gathering signatures to put an initiated measure on the November…
August 14, 2023
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Critical Funding for North Dakota

Senate Passes NDAA Sen. Kevin Cramer release WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 with a vote of 86 to 11. “The National Defense Authorization Act is a critical part of Congress’ first…
July 28, 2023
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Senators Move to Block Biden Rule Allowing Chinese EV Chargers

Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-ND, release WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined his Senate colleagues in introducing a joint resolution under the Congressional Review Act to overturn a Biden administration rule which would send American tax dollars to overseas competitors despite the administration’s own Buy America regulations. The resolution…
July 27, 2023
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Retire Congress Receives Go-ahead

Petition Drive Set Bismarck – Retire Congress North Dakota announces that it has been approved to circulate petitions for an amendment to the North Dakota state Constitution that would prohibit anyone from North Dakota older than 80 from being elected to Congress. “We’re excited to get to work gathering signatures…
July 25, 2023
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Burgum Reaches Presidential Debate Stage 

ND Governor Meets Qualifications  MINOT – North Dakota governor and Republican presidential candidate Doug Burgum had apparently earned his spot on the debate stage with six other qualifying candidates. The first Republican debate is set for August 23 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  According to NBC News, Burgum hit 1% in his…
July 25, 2023
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Proposal to Limit Age for Congress

Retire Congress North Dakota Proposes Constitutional Amendment That Sets Age 80 As Limit To Serve In Congress From North Dakota BISMARCK -- Retire Congress North Dakota announces that it is spearheading a statewide push for an amendment to the North Dakota state Constitution that would prohibit anyone from North Dakota…
July 14, 2023
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Court Decision on Biden Administration's Unlawful Student Loan Forgiveness Plan

Senator Kevin Cramer release BISMARCK — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement on the Supreme Court’s decision in the student loan forgiveness case Biden v. Nebraska. “The pandemic is over and so is the student loan forgiveness saga. Today’s ruling rightly struck down the Biden administration’s illegal…
June 30, 2023
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NDGOP Elects Sandi Sanford as Chairman

Press Release Sandi Sanford, the former 2nd lady of North Dakota, was named the new Chair of the North Dakota GOP Friday in Fargo. Running on a platform of uniting the party and supporting the values espoused in the party’s platform, Sanford defeated incumbent chair, Perrie Schafer. Her campaign focused…
June 17, 2023
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Senators call out Biden Administration

Seek Information for Sidestepping Chinese Spy Balloon Inquiry Senators Call Out Biden Administration for Sidestepping Spy Balloon InquiryBISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined his Senate colleagues in writing a letter to President Biden calling out a constant lack of transparency related…
June 16, 2023
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Trial Underway in Tribe’s Lawsuit 

Dispute over North Dakota Redistricting Map  By JACK DURA Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Two tribes are in federal court this week, trying to prove to a judge that North Dakota's legislative district map dilutes Native American voters' strength on their reservations.  A trial began Monday in Fargo in…
June 13, 2023
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Reaction to Burgum’s Presidential Bid 

Area Legislators Respond  MINOT -- It was certainly a historic moment.   North Dakota Republican Governor Doug Burgum made it official Wednesday morning, announcing in Fargo that he is entering the presidential race. Burgum cited the economy, energy, and national security as his key platform issues.  Burgum told the enthusiastic gathering…
June 7, 2023
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Gov. Doug Burgum Jumps into Race for President 

Joins Crowded Republican Field  By THOMAS BEAUMONT and JACK DURA Associated Press  FARGO, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a former software entrepreneur who enacted a slate of laws this year advancing conservative policies on culture war issues, highlighted his small-town roots and business experience as he announced…
June 7, 2023
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Human Relations Committee Vote Delayed by Minot City Council

Minot – The new Minot City Council Chambers were, once again, full of residents interested in providing input on the Human Relations Committee that was set to be discussed at Monday’s meeting but had to leave without answers. Since the ordinance for the Human Relations Committee was on the agenda…
June 5, 2023
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Gov Burgum Vetoes: Obscene Bill and Miscellaneous Partial Veto

This article is part four of a mini-series documenting the seven bills that Governor Burgum vetoed in the 2023 legislative session. For the other articles, click here. Senate bill 2360 - “The ‘Obscene’ Bill” Introduced by: Senator Keith Boehm, Senator Todd Beard, Senator David Hogue, Representative Jim Kasper, Senator Bob Paulson,…
June 5, 2023
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New Gov. Doug Burgum Announcement Preview Video 

Edges Closer to Republican Presidential Race  By STEVE KARNOWSKI Associated Press  North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum took another step toward entering the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, posting a YouTube video on Monday touting his rise from a small town boy to a self-made software entrepreneur and a…
June 5, 2023
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Gov. Burgum Vetoes: Private School and Open Vote Bills

This article is part three of a mini-series documenting the seven bills that Governor Burgum vetoed in the 2023 legislative session. For the other articles, click here. House Bill 1532 - The private school Bill Introduced by: Representative Claire Cory, Senator Todd Beard, Senator Randy A. Burckhard, Senator David Hogue, Representative…
June 4, 2023
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Gov. Burgum Vetoes: Health Insurance and Ranked-Choice Bills

This article is part one of a mini-series documenting the seven bills that Governor Burgum vetoed in the 2023 legislative session. For the other articles, click here. House Bill 1416 - “The Health Insurance Bill  Introduced by:   Representative Dwight Kiefert, Representative Karen A. Anderson, Senator Cole Conley, Representative Karen M.…
June 3, 2023
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Gov. Burgum Vetoes: 7 Vetoed Bills this Session, here are 2 of them

This article is part one of a mini-series documenting the seven bills that Governor Burgum vetoed in the 2023 legislative session. For the other articles, click here. The ND Legislative session ended at the end of April. It was a historic session with 932 bills and 56 resolutions that were…
June 2, 2023
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Sen. Cramer on Debt Spending Bill

Senate Passes Fiscal Responsibility Act WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Banking Committee, issued the following statement after voting for the bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act, a bill to suspend the debt limit until January 1, 2025, while cutting discretionary spending and enacting substantive permitting reforms: “As…
June 2, 2023
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Striving for Property and Environment Protection

Public Service Commission BISMARCK – Regulation can be a controversial subject, but one department says the purpose of its regulations is to protect people’s property, including the products they buy, as well as the environment. The Public Service Commission in North Dakota regulates several things, but the four main objectives…
May 20, 2023
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Human Relations Ordinance Postponed Again

Packed Room  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com MINOT – An ordinance to create a Human Relations Committee that brought in a packed room at the Minot City Council meeting Monday was tabled for a second time. The HCR, originally created in 1976 but has been dormant for over a decade, was created to be…
May 16, 2023
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Updates on National, State, and Local Republican Issues

Republican Women of Minot Speak About Current Politics MINOT – With Republicans holding the majority of political positions across North Dakota, there seems to be an ongoing divide in the party, some calling for more unity and perhaps allowing for a “bigger tent,” and some calling for a closer adherence…
May 13, 2023
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ND Governor signs remaining bills from 2023 legislative session

Major appropriations bills BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum completed the signing of 45 bills this week that remained after the North Dakota Legislature adjourned its 2023 biennial regular session on April 30. Burgum had 15 business days to sign bills remaining in the governor’s possession when the assembly adjourned sine die. The Legislature sent…
May 11, 2023
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North Dakota governor signs law protecting tribal adoptions

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for AmericaNorth Dakota's Republican Gov. Doug Burgum has signed a bill into law to protect tribal cultures by codifying the federal Indian Child Welfare Act into state law, Burgum's office announced Monday.The federal Indian Child Welfare Act, enacted in 1978, gives preference to Native American…
May 8, 2023
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North Dakota governor OKs pronoun bill

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for AmericaNorth Dakota's Republican Gov. Doug Burgum has signed a bill into law that allows public school teachers and state government employees to ignore the pronouns their transgender students and colleagues use, the governor's office announced Monday.The new law also requires teachers to tell a…
May 8, 2023
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Senator Censured 

Action Taken Against Karen Krebsbach  MINOT – Sen. Karen Krebsbach, R-Dis. 40, Minot, was rebuked by the District Executive Committee during a Tuesday evening meeting. Krebsbach has been in the State Legislature since 1989, earning a reputation of one of the most influential senators on the floor.  Jay Lundeen, Minot,…
May 3, 2023
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Legislative Conclusion 

Leaders Share Final Thoughts  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Legislature adjourned at 3 a.m. Sunday.  The legislature passed $515 million in direct tax relief, which is about 19% of the state’s surplus of $2.7 billion. The legislature also appropriated $62 million in childcare aid, $5.3 billion for the…
May 2, 2023
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If You Need Help With Insurance… 

Insurance Department lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Insurance can be a complicated issue sometimes, but one department’s job is to assist people in it.  The North Dakota Insurance Department was described by its Communications Director Jacob Just as an advocate for people with insurance. However, the primary role of the insurance department…
April 29, 2023
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Majority Leaders Look Back at Session 

Address Issues at Press Conference  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – As the North Dakota Legislative session winds down, the majority leaders on both sides shared their thoughts on the session at a press conference Friday.  Senate Majority Leader Sen. David Hogue, R-Dis. 38, Minot, addressed the budget surplus of $2.7 billion.  “At…
April 28, 2023
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Letter Demands Answers on FHFA Policy to Subsidize High-Risk Borrowers

BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, joined Senators Roger Marshall, M.D., R-KS, and Thom Tillis, R-NC, in sending Sandra Thompson, Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, a letter in fierce opposition to a policy which would penalize Americans who responsibly manage their money. The proposal, slated to go…
April 28, 2023
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Library Porn Bill Rejected in ND House 

Fails to Override Veto  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House failed to garner a 2/3rds vote to override Governor Doug Burgum’s veto of a bill that would require sexually obscene books to be inaccessible to minors.  Senate Bill 2360 sought to require sexually explicit material be kept away…
April 28, 2023
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Women's Prison Bill Passes Senate

Included in Department of Corrections Budget  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill that provides funds for a new state prison for women. The action came during Thursday’s legislative session.  House Bill 1015, the department of correction and rehabilitation budget, would provide $131.2 million for the…
April 28, 2023
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Money for U.S. Highway 52 Project 

Study for Minot-Velva Stretch Included in Bill  BISMARCK – A bill containing money for a proposed highway improvement project, the widening of U.S. Highway 52 from Minot to Velva, awaits signature approval from Governor Doug Burgum.  “We got $5 million for an environmental study. We got it with good cooperation…
April 27, 2023
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Tax Relief Passes ND Legislature

Much Debate lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Legislature has combined all the tax relief ideas into one bill which passed the House Wednesday afternoon and the Senate Wednesday evening. Much debate was had on both floors with both Republicans and Democrats expressing dissatisfaction in the final package, though…
April 27, 2023
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Speaker Blocks Handouts During Porn Bill Tussle

Senate Overrides Governor’s Veto lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – The Speaker of the North Dakota State House, Rep. Dennis Johnson, R-Dis. 15, Devils Lake, decided Wednesday not to allow certain materials to be handed out to House members, saying they were inappropriate. Rep. Scott Dyk, R-Dis. 23, Williston, told The Dakotan he…
April 26, 2023
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Parental Rights Bill Killed in House 

Public School Access  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House has killed a bill that would have established certain rights of a parent in the context of public school.  House Bill 2260 states that the government cannot substantially burden a parent’s right to direct the upbringing of their child.…
April 26, 2023
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House Fails to Override School Choice Veto 

"Sick and Tired of Vetoes"  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dis. 37, Dickinson, said he is sick and tired of vetoes before the North Dakota State House failed Tuesday to override Gov. Doug Burgum’s veto of a bill to give students of private schools financial aid.  House…
April 25, 2023
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Speed Limit Fails Again in Senate 

Amendment Added to Bill  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House found a way to try changing the interstate speed limit again from 75 miles per hour to 80 mph by adding the change as an amendment to a different bill which the Senate killed Tuesday.  Both the House…
April 25, 2023
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Electric Charging Stations in Condos Pass House Again 

Sponsor Derives Bill After Issues in Fargo lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to require homeowners associations to allow electric vehicle charging stations passed the North Dakota State House for a second time Monday.  House Bill 1310 would void restrictions from condo associations on homeowners’ ability to install the infrastructure needed…
April 24, 2023
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Helping People With Insurance 

Working in the Capitol  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – People working in communications must have an understanding of a variety of topics, and one man from Bismarck works to communicate for a department that helps people with the often complicated topic of insurance.  Jacob Just is the director of communications for the…
April 23, 2023
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Minot GOP District Chairs Chosen 

Two Incumbents, Two Newbies  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MINOT – All four of Minot’s Republican legislative districts have chosen their chairmen as of Saturday.  District 5, which covers most of southern Minot, re-elected Chairman Travis Zablotney, Minot, Saturday with no opposition. Almost 50 voters were in attendance for the meeting held at Motel…
April 22, 2023
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Capitol Security 

Keeping it Safe  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Capitol is a place where many hot topics are discussed, thus providing a high-profile environment that may require security at times.  Darcy Aberle, director of Capitol security, said security is at the Capitol all year round, 24 hours a day.  Some…
April 22, 2023
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Second Porn Book Bill Passes Senate 

Lawmakers Allege Death by Fiscal Note lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A second bill dealing with sexually explicit material in public libraries passed the North Dakota State Senate Friday after much discussion. Some senators alleged the bill went through the process of “death by fiscal note” in the House.  Senate Bill 2360…
April 21, 2023
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$65 Million for Childcare 

Assistance Passes House  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed Friday a bill seeking to assist more families with childcare and help alleviate a childcare workforce crisis.  House Bill 1540 would provide a total appropriation of $65,600,000 for childcare programs to be distributed to families depending on their income…
April 21, 2023
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New Free School Meals Passes House

Constitutionality Questioned lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK — An attempt to again pass funding to make school meals free for families making up to $60,000 a year was successful in the North Dakota State House Thursday evening. This comes after a previous single-subject bill that would have done the same thing failed in…
April 21, 2023
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Corporate Ranching Advances

Passes House  PIX—-legis rep thomas ranching bill  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill that seeks to modernize ranching in North Dakota law has made its way through several amendments in a conference committee and passed the full body of the North Dakota State House for a second time Thursday.  House Bill…
April 20, 2023
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Governor Signs Law on Trans Health Care 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bill into law that makes it a crime to give gender-affirming care to people younger than 18.  Gender-affirming care for minors has increasingly come under attack in many conservative legislatures, including North Dakota, where lawmakers have…
April 20, 2023
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Raw Milk Bill Passes House Again 

Direct-to-Consumer Sales  BISMARCK – A bill legalizing the direct-to-consumer sales of raw milk passed the North Dakota State House Wednesday for a second time.  House Bill 1515, the “raw milk” bill, originally passed the House. After Senate amendments it was referred to a conference committee.    After slight changes in conference…
April 20, 2023
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Senate Fails to Override Rank Voting Ban Veto 

Local Control Debate  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate failed Wednesday to override the governor’s veto on a bill that would have banned rank and approval choice voting in the state.  House Bill 1273 would have prohibited political subdivisions from using a rank choice voting system, where voters…
April 19, 2023
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Bill to Ban Abortion at Six Weeks Advances 

Associated Press  Lawmakers in North Dakota's House passed a bill Monday that would criminalize abortions after six weeks of gestation -- even in cases of rape or incest, the Bismarck Tribune reported.  The bill still requires approval from the Senate and governor to become law.  Opponents of the bill said…
April 18, 2023
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House Overrides Governor Veto  

'Patient Choice' Bill   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House on Monday overrode Governor Doug Burgum’s veto of House Bill 1416.  The bill sought to prohibit health insurers from excluding a health care provider from participating on the health insurer’s panel.  Burgum’s reasoning for vetoing the bill was read…
April 17, 2023
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Guarding the Capitol 

Director of Capitol Security lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – With so many people coming in and out of the North Dakota State Capitol, and the fact that it’s a high profile meeting place where controversial issues take place, security is necessary.  Darcy Aberle, North Dakota Highway Patrol sergeant and director of Capitol…
April 16, 2023
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Senators Question $50 Million for Tourism 

Commerce Budget Increased 415%  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – One bill making its way through the North Dakota State Legislature seeks to provide $50 million for tourism initiatives, which had some senators hesitant before the bill passed Thursday.  House Bill 1018 seeks to increase the Department of Commerce budget by 415%, from about…
April 14, 2023
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Race Bill Debated Again 

Accreditation Concern  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House has once again debated and passed a bill prohibiting the penalization of people based on their support or opposition to specified concepts such as the idea that one race is privileged over another.  Senate Bill 2247 would prohibit state universities…
April 14, 2023
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House Again Passes Private School Tuition Funds 

Bill Subject to Veto  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House has twice approved a bill providing students at private schools tuition aid. The second passage of the bill took place Thursday morning but lacked two thirds vote needed to override a possible veto from the governor.  House Bill…
April 13, 2023
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Senate Sifts Through $3 Billion University Funds 

Lengthy Number of Items Explained  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A North Dakota State Senator explained a 30-page bill that appropriates over three billion dollars to the state universities, which passed the Senate Wednesday.  House Bill 1003 seeks to appropriate over $3.2 billion for state universities, including $1.1 billion to the University of…
April 12, 2023
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Governor Signs Trans Athlete Bans  

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  North Dakota's Republican Gov. Doug Burgum on Tuesday evening signed two transgender athlete bans into law, effectively prohibiting transgender girls and women from joining female sports teams in K-12 and college.  Lawmakers in the House and Senate passed the bills with veto-proof majorities…
April 12, 2023
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House Votes Money for Minot Airport Hangar 

Military Museum in Bismarck  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House approved an appropriation bill that includes money for a Minot airport hangar and a military museum in Bismarck.  Senate Bill 2016 provides a total of approximately $386 million of federal and state money for the adjutant general’s budget.…
April 12, 2023
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Cigar Bill Signed 

Allows Cigar Lounges in State  BISMARCK – Smoking in public places in North Dakota, banned by a ballot measure in 2012, is about to change somewhat.  On Tuesday Governor Doug Burgum signed into law House Bill 1229. What was known as the “cigar lounge” bill goes into effect August 1…
April 12, 2023
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Property Tax Increase for Water Boards 

ND House Approves Bill  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House approved a bill Tuesday that would require counties to levy a maximum of up to two mills of property tax for a joint water resource board.  Senate Bill 2372 would require all districts within the Souris River, Red River,…
April 11, 2023
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Money for Private Students Passes Senate 

Lawmakers Debate School Choice  BISMARCK – A bill to help offset tuition costs for students enrolling in private K-12 schools passed the North Dakota State Senate Tuesday.  House Bill 1532 would provide funds to qualified private schools for the purpose of offsetting the cost for parents, no more than 30%…
April 11, 2023
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Sports Betting Fails Senate 

Lawmakers Debate Regulating Versus Ban  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A resolution that would have placed a measure on the ballot to allow sports betting failed in the North Dakota State Senate Monday.  House Bill 3002 would have placed a constitutional measure to allow the legislative assembly to authorize sports betting in the…
April 10, 2023
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Term Limits Resolution Rejected 

Senate Rejects Two House Votes  BISMARCK – Two resolutions that passed overwhelmingly in the North Dakota State House of Representatives suffered crushing rejection in the Senate Monday.  House Concurrent Resolution 3019, which sought to repeal and replace a term limits initiated measure approved by state voters in the November 2022…
April 10, 2023
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Senate Votes for Signature Fraud Penalty 

lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to provide a fine of up to a $3,000 for fraudulent signatures passed the North Dakota State Senate Monday.  House Bill 1230 initially sought to issue a fine no less than $10,000 to a ballot measure’s committee chairman that willfully submits invalid signatures. Amendments were…
April 10, 2023
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Mister Chief Clerk 

Reading Bills for 18 Years  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – In North Dakota the titles of legislative bills are read to both the State House and State Senate.   Who reads the titles on the House side?  Buell Reich, Bismarck, chief clerk for the House side, said his job includes taking care…
April 9, 2023
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Boatload of Proposed Constitutional Measures This Year

Lawmakers Sort Out Resolutions lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – There is no limit to how many constitutional measures can be placed on a ballot in North Dakota, but the upcoming 2024 ballot looks like it may have a hefty amount due to the many legislative resolutions introduced this session, according to state…
April 8, 2023
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Chippewa Woman Named North Dakota Poet Laureate 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  North Dakota lawmakers have appointed a Chippewa woman as the state's poet laureate, making her the first Native American to hold this position in the state and increasing attention to her expertise on the troubled history of Native American boarding schools.  Denise Lajimodiere,…
April 7, 2023
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Lawmakers Change Child Labor Laws for Sports 

Fourteen-Year-Old Workers Past 9 P.M.  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill Friday that would allow 14- and 15-year-olds to work past 9 p.m. at sports events in the summer months.  North Dakotans must be 14 years old to be employed, and currently youth 14 and…
April 7, 2023
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House Votes for Legal Immigration Office 

A Strategy in Helping Workforce Shortages  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House has passed a bill that would create an office of legal immigration, which lawmakers say is one way to help the workforce and retention crisis.  Senate Bill 2142 would appropriate $485,000 to the Department of Commerce…
April 7, 2023
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State Meal Reimbursement Increased 

Passes Senate, House  BISMARCK -- The amount of money state employees, legislators included, are to be reimbursed for meal expenses has been increased by the North Dakota Legislature.  The Senate passed SB2124 43-4 and sent it to the House where it initially failed 31-59 but passed a reconsideration vote the…
April 7, 2023
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House Extends Time Limits for Sexual Assault Lawsuits 

Bill Previously Passed Senate  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill this week to change the window of time for a person to file a lawsuit on the grounds of sexual assault.  The current statute of limitation in the century code for someone to sue if they…
April 7, 2023
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park Transportation Passes 

House Amendments  BISMARCK – A bill to allow a transportation agreement with the Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora and Watford City has passed both North Dakota State Legislative Chambers after amendments.  Senate Bill 2110 would allow the director of the North Dakota Department of Transportation to enter an agreement…
April 6, 2023
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Senate Votes to Close Defined Benefit Plan 

Retirement Options for Future Public Employees  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to close a traditional pension plan for future public employees passed the North Dakota State Senate Tuesday.  House Bill 1040 would close what’s known as the defined benefit plan on December 31, 2024 for new public employees starting January…
April 5, 2023
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Proposal to Add Legislative Days 

Increase from 80 to 100 days  MINOT – There's a movement underway in the State Legislature to extend the length of sessions from 80 days to 100 days.  House Concurrent Resolution 3020 passed the House 74-18. It is scheduled to be heard by the Senate Workforce Development Committee this Thursday.…
April 4, 2023
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Committee Votes to Overturn Election 

Resolution Seeks to Reverse Term Limits  BISMARCK – The North Dakota Senate Judiciary Committee wants the initiated measure that implemented terms limits for legislators and the governor to be repealed.  By a 5-2 vote Monday the Judiciary Committee gave a Do Pass recommendation to House Concurrent Resolution 3019 and forwarded…
April 3, 2023
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Rules for Tenure Fail Senate 

Universities of Dickinson and Bismarck  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill that adds rules and a system of review for some university professors with tenure failed in the North Dakota State Senate Friday.  House Bill 1446 would have created a four-year program with four to five new requirements for tenured faculty…
April 3, 2023
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House Fails to Override Speed Limit, Pronoun Vetoes 

Two-Thirds Vote Not Reached  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House failed to override a pair of bills vetoed by Gov. Doug Burgum.  Senate Bill 2231 sought to prohibit a government entity from mandating a teacher use the preferred pronouns of a student. The bill also prohibits public schools…
April 3, 2023
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Madame Secretary

Reading the Bills for Six Years BISMARCK – Legislative bills go through a rigorous process to become law, and part of that process is that every bill’s potential location in Century Code must be read audibly to both chambers of the state. The person who reads this must do so…
April 2, 2023
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North Dakota Submarine Deployment Detailed 

Commander Speaks to ND Legislature  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – North Dakota’s submarine executed its third deployment a year ago during the Russia-Ukraine war. Its commander detailed the trip to the state legislators earlier this week.  Commander Robert Edmonson III, Connecticut, commanding officer of the submarine USS North Dakota, told legislators he…
April 1, 2023
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Deer Baiting, Fishing Tourney Fees Advance 

Hot Topic Outdoor Bills at ND Legislature  BISMARCK – Two bills that have captured the attention of hunters and fishermen in the state will soon be brought to a vote on the floor of the Senate.  Both HB1151, the deer baiting bill, and HB1538, the fishing tournament fee bill have…
March 31, 2023
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Senate Votes to Give SOS More Power 

Bill Requiring Discretion of Signature Validity  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to give the North Dakota Secretary of State more authority in the petition process has passed the State Senate.  House Bill 1324 would require the Secretary of State to use discretion over the random sampling process as to the…
March 31, 2023
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Senate Overrides Pronoun Veto 

House Yet to Act  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate overrode the governor’s veto Thursday on a bill prohibiting the government from requiring certain pronouns.  Senate Bill 2231 seeks to prohibit a government entity from mandating a teacher use the preferred pronouns of a student. The bill also…
March 31, 2023
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Seat Belt Primary Bill Passes House 

Arguments for Safety and Personal Responsibility   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Thursday that would give law enforcement the ability to pull someone over for the reason of not wearing a seatbelt.  Senate Bill 2362 seeks to change the violation of not wearing a seatbelt…
March 31, 2023
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Squabble Over Landowner Permission Bill

House Says No to Reconsideration  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – North Dakota State House leaders deliberated on whether a vote should happen before a bill seeking to require permission from landowners failed to be reconsidered Wednesday.  Senate Bill 2251 would have required corporations to obtain written consent from a landowner, or a…
March 30, 2023
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Man Involved in Self Defense Case Testifies on North Dakota Bill 

BISMARCK – Kyle Rittenhouse of Illinois has been known by many in the country as having been involved in a self-defense case and is now expressing support for a North Dakota self-defense bill.  House Bill 1213 would allow North Dakota courts to order the state to reimburse legal costs for…
March 30, 2023
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Senate Passes Relocation of Sexually Explicit Books 

Bill Accused of Targeting LGBTQ Community  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A requirement for public libraries to relocate their sexually explicit books from the children’s section to the adult section passed the North Dakota State Senate Wednesday.  House Bill 1205 seeks to prohibit public libraries from keeping sexually explicit material in its…
March 30, 2023
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Judge orders US to resume oil, gas leasing in North Dakota 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press  A federal judge has ordered the U.S. government to resume oil and gas lease sales on federal lands in North Dakota, even as a legal battle continues over the Biden administration's decision to pause the leasing program two years ago in an effort to combat…
March 29, 2023
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Virtual School Bill Passes Senate 

Distance Learning Enrollment  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate has passed a bill to allow per pupil funds to follow students enrolling in a virtual school.  Senate Bill 1376 seeks to prohibit school districts from denying enrollment to students for virtual school and allow the per pupil funds…
March 29, 2023
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Surveyor Permission Fails House 

Tie Vote in Eminent Domain Issue BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House narrowly defeated a bill that would have required surveyors to obtain written consent from landowners before entering their land.  Senate Bill 2251 would have required corporations to obtain written consent from a landowner or a court order…
March 28, 2023
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House Passes Ban on Penalization Based on ‘Divisive Concepts’ 

Public University Curriculum  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Monday to prohibit public universities from penalizing someone based on 'divisive concepts’ such as the idea that one race is privileged over another.  Senate Bill 2247 would prohibit state universities from conducting mandatory noncredit earning training that…
March 28, 2023
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Legislature Pondering Corporate Ranching, Foreign Land Ownership  

Bills Remain in Active Process MINOT – Two bills still working their way through the legislative process, one dealing with corporate ranching and the other with foreign ownership of land within the state, are receiving plenty of attention.  Rep. Jay Fisher, R-Dis. 5, Minot, told a legislative forum in Minot…
March 28, 2023
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School Lunch Burned in Senate 

Lawmakers say no to free lunch  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to provide free lunch in schools for more students failed in the North Dakota State Senate Monday.  House Bill 1491 would have provided an appropriation of $6 million, or as much as is necessary, to provide free lunch to…
March 27, 2023
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Minot Missile Money 

For planning of major project  MINOT – The Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles based at Minot Air Force Base are due for replacement. A bill before the State Legislature, SB2240, seeks to appropriate money that would finance necessary community planning for the massive project.  Sen. Randy Burckhard, R-Dis. 5, Minot,…
March 27, 2023
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Term Limits and Tax Relief 

Topics at Legislative Forum  MINOT – The North Dakota legislature is taking aim at a term limits-initiated measure approved by voters in the last general election. The matter was one of the topics discussed at a recent legislative forum in Minot.  House Concurrent Resolution No. 3019 passed the House 63-29…
March 27, 2023
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Tax Break for Hospitals Under Construction 

Approved by ND Senate  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARK – The North Dakota State Senate has passed a bill to exempt hospitals and nursing homes from property tax during construction.  House Bill 1438 would exempt public hospitals and nursing homes from paying taxes on their undeveloped properties of up to 50 acres for…
March 27, 2023
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Supporting the Governor’s Appointee 

Financial Director’s Assistant  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Since the governor is managing an entire state, he appoints assistants. However, sometimes those assistants also need assistance.  Lori Sondag is the executive assistant to Joe Morrissette, director of the Office of Management and Budget for the cabinet of Republican Governor Doug Burgum. Sondag…
March 26, 2023
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House Overturns Previous Vote on UND Property Tax 

Statements Corrected  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House reversed an earlier decision and voted down a resolution Friday to give the option to voters to repeal a one mill levy property tax, a tax which funds the medical school at the University of North Dakota.  Senate Concurrent Resolution…
March 24, 2023
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Single Subject Constitution Passes House 

Resolution to Change Requirements for Measures  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A resolution attempting to simplify constitutional measures by requiring a single subject rule passed the North Dakota State House Thursday.  Senate Concurrent Resolution 4013 would place a measure on the November 2024 ballot to require all future initiated measures be one subject…
March 24, 2023
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Corporate Livestock Bill Reaches Committee 

ND Senators Hear Testimony  BISMARCK – A bill for the purpose of “authorized livestock farm corporation requirements”, touted by Gov. Doug Burgum in his annual state-of-the-state address, was heard by members of the Senate Agriculture and Veteran’s Affairs Committee Friday.  The bill, dubbed both the Corporate Ranching bill and the…
March 24, 2023
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Removal of Property Tax for UND Passes House 

Funding for Medical Center  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House voted Thursday to place on the ballot a removal of the only property tax that the state levies, which goes to the medical center at the University of North Dakota.  Senate Concurrent Resolution 4019 would place on the…
March 23, 2023
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Repeal of Trigger on Oil Extraction Tax 

lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill Wednesday to remove the upper trigger on the oil extraction tax.  House Bill 1286 would remove the upper trigger on oil extraction tax with the exception of tax on oil wells within the Fort Berthold Reservation boundaries. The upper…
March 23, 2023
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North Dakota House Passes School Gender Pronoun Prohibition 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  Public schools and state agencies in North Dakota would be prohibited from referring to students and employees by any pronouns that don't reflect the sex assigned to them at birth, under a bill approved by the legislature.  The House approved the bill 60-32…
March 23, 2023
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All Traffic Violations to be Recorded

Bill Passes Senate lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill Wednesday requiring all traffic violations be placed on a person’s driving record for any insurance company to see. Current law makes an exception for traffic violations that result in the deduction of two points or less.…
March 22, 2023
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Removal of Front License Plate Fails Senate 

Senators Disagree with Representatives  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate voted down a bill Wednesday, House Bill 1295, that would have removed the requirement to have front license plates on motor vehicles.  “A front license plate may not be aesthetically pleasing, but it serves a very valuable purpose,” said…
March 22, 2023
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Senate Votes to Change Interstate Speed Limit 

From 75 to 80 Miles Per Hour  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate voted Wednesday to change the speed limit on the state’s interstate highways.  House Bill 1475 would change the speed limit on some portions of North Dakota’s interstates from 75 miles per hour to 80 miles…
March 22, 2023
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School Construction Assistance Fails 

Senators Say No to Two Bills  BISMARCK – It’s back to the cutting board for school districts in the state caught up in rising inflationary costs of construction projects.  Communities that passed bond issues – Minot, Rugby, Mandan, and West Fargo, had hoped to get some assistance from the state…
March 21, 2023
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North Dakota Senate advances tax breaks for fracking 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  The North Dakota Senate passed a bill Monday that would give tax incentives to oil companies for "restimulating" old oil wells in the state through hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking.  Fracking involves injecting high-pressure water deep underground to extract oil or gas…
March 21, 2023
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Diaper Sales Tax Exemption Passes Senate 

North Dakota Senators Discuss Family Needs  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to exempt diapers from sales tax passed the North Dakota State Senate Monday.  House Bill 1177 seeks to exempt the purchase of children's diapers from the payment of sales tax. The bill received a Do Not Pass recommendation from…
March 20, 2023
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Childcare Bills Fail House 

Monthly Payments for Workforce and Tax Credit  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Two bills relating to childcare have failed in the North Dakota State House.  Senate Bill 2301 would have created a childcare stabilization program to provide daycare centers with monthly payments based on their licensed capacity and the age of the…
March 20, 2023
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Keeping an Eye on the Senate Floor 

Senate Sergeant at Arms  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The Dakotan interviewed a sergeant at arms for the North Dakota State House. Now it’s time to take a look at what it’s like on the Senate side.  Wayne Rogstad of Bismarck, Senate sergeant at arms, said his main job is similar to…
March 19, 2023
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Fishing Tournament Fee Kerfuffle 

Senate Committee Hears Testimony  BISMARCK – Since 1984 the North Dakota Game and Fish Department has assessed state fishing tournaments a 10% conservation fee and required that 75% of entry fees be paid out to tourney competitors. A bill that passed the House, 90-2, asks for a change in Game…
March 17, 2023
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“Plain Language” for Constitutional Measures Passes House 

Legislator Says Software Can Help Determine Readability Level  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Thursday to require constitutional measures to read in plain language.  Senate Bill 2163 would require constitutional initiated measures to be written in plain, clear, and understandable language, which is defined in…
March 17, 2023
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State Employee Third Plan Fails House 

Colonoscopy, Breast Pump, Contraceptive Coverage Struck  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A third option for state employee health insurance coverage was struck down by the North Dakota State House Thursday.  Senate Bill 2171 would have directed the Public Employees’ Retirement System board to develop a third option for state employee health insurance…
March 17, 2023
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Deer Baiting Bill Heats Up

Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee  BISMARCK – The bill that has elicited more written testimony than any other in the current session of the State Legislature, HB1151, was first on the agenda of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee meeting Thursday. The bill seeks to prohibit the North…
March 17, 2023
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Official State Firearm Fails House 

Controversy Over Winchester Model 1876 lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to designate the state’s official firearm failed the North Dakota State House Wednesday.  Senate Concurrent Resolution 4010 would have designated the Winchester Model 1876 as the official state firearm of North Dakota.  “The Political Subdivisions committee heard testimony that this…
March 16, 2023
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Senate Kills Removal of Schools from Sports Betting 

Resolution Amendment Fails  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – An amendment to remove schools from the intent of a sports betting resolution failed in the North Dakota State Senate Wednesday.  House Concurrent Resolution 3002 would put on the November 2024 ballot a constitutional measure to allow sports betting in the state.  The Senate…
March 16, 2023
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Curling Sweeps Through House 

Creates Official State Sport  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to make curling the official sport of North Dakota passed the State House Wednesday.  Senate Bill 2229 would designate curling as the official state sport of North Dakota.  Rep. Mike Motschenbacher, R-Dis. 47, Bismarck, pointed to other states that have official…
March 15, 2023
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Cigar Bill Passes Senate 

Legislators’ Mixed Votes  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill Wednesday to allow cigar lounges in private businesses.  House Bill 1229, after Senate amendments, would allow private businesses to operate as a cigar lounge with certain regulations including a ventilation system. Cigar lounges are defined in…
March 15, 2023
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Senate Moves to Expand Youth Hunting 

Extends Deer Season for Pre-Teens  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Young deer hunters may be given a longer hunting season due to the North Dakota State Senate’s vote Tuesday.  House Bill 1233, on line 18, would remove the wording that says 11, 12, and 13-year-olds may only hunt deer during youth hunting…
March 15, 2023
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New Term Limits Pass House 

Constitutional Measure Proposed  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House has passed a resolution proposing changes to current term limits in the constitution that had been passed by voters in November.  Current term limits in Article XV of the constitution, passed by more than 63% of voters in November…
March 15, 2023
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Sen. Cramer, on Collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank 

MARCH 15, 2023  WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the below statement on the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank and subsequent reactions by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation:  “The failures of Silicon Valley Bank…
March 15, 2023
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Property Tax Elimination Fails Both Chambers 

State House and Senate Resolutions  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House killed a resolution Tuesday to put a measure on the ballot to eliminate property tax. The Senate defeated a resolution to put a measure on the ballot to eliminate property tax for schools.  House Concurrent Resolution 3024…
March 14, 2023
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Reconsideration of Digital Currency Bill Fails Senate 

Proposed Change to the Definition of Money  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A North Dakota state senator attempted Monday to reconsider a bill in order to amend wording that excludes certain electronic currency.  House Bill 1082 is a bill that is over 100 pages, but much of the concern is on page…
March 14, 2023
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House Moves to Change Rules for County Taxes 

Bill to Change 2011 Vote  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Legislature voted Monday to change rules for counties receiving Grant and Per Diem program funding.  Senate Bill 2162 would allow counties to continue to receive GPD funding without levying property tax by a total of 10 mills for…
March 13, 2023
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Helping the Legislators 

Page at the Capitol  BISMARCK – As North Dakota State legislators race to get through hundreds of bills, there are some people of all ages stationed in the chambers to help them.  Alice Delzer, State House page, grew up in Hazelton and has lived in Mandan since the 1960s. After retiring…
March 12, 2023
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Weather Forecast Sidelines Legislature 

Adjourn Early Due to Impending Storm   BISMARCK – With a blizzard projected to hit many parts of North Dakota, the State House adjourned after half an hour of session without voting on any of the scheduled bills for the 14th order where Senate bills are typically voted on. A picture…
March 10, 2023
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House Knocks Down Oil Impact Studies on Environment 

Resolutions Pertaining to Fort Berthold  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Two resolutions pertaining to the impacts of oil on the environment on the Fort Berthold Reservation failed in the North Dakota State House Friday.  House Concurrent Resolution 3029 would have directed legislative management to study whether the Fort Berthold Reservation should have…
March 10, 2023
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House Considers Cost of Demolishing State Hospital Buildings 

Sent to Appropriations Committee  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The legislature might spend five million dollars to tear down buildings after the North Dakota State House considered a bill from the Senate Thursday.  Senate Bill 2026, if passed, would appropriate one time funding of $5 million dollars, or however much may be…
March 10, 2023
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Senate Kills House Gambling Exemption 

Bill Attempted to Exempt Poker Runs  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – An attempt by the North Dakota State House to exempt riding poker runs from charitable gambling laws was killed on the Senate side Thursday.  House Bill 1152 would have made an exception to charitable gambling laws for those who aid, organize,…
March 9, 2023
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Charitable Gaming Site Fines Fail House

Bill Proposed Fines for Site Owners lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com BISMARCK – A bill to create fines for charitable gaming sites failed the North Dakota State House Wednesday. Senate Bill 2271 would have allowed the attorney general to fine charitable gaming site owners between $500 and $5,000 for not following charitable gaming laws.…
March 9, 2023
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Senate Votes to Extend Moratorium of School Fund Balance 

Study on Impact of Ending Fund Balances  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate voted Wednesday to extend the moratorium of school districts no longer being required to spend all of the emergency funds given to them.  House Bill 1238 would extend the school district moratorium from July 1, 2023,…
March 9, 2023
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Pay for Retired Police Dog Fails Senate 

Funds for K9 Medical Expenses   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Money for retired police dogs was voted down by the North Dakota State Senate Wednesday.  House Bill 1388 would provide funding to handlers that care for law enforcement canines after service of $1,000 a year for medical expenses for the rest of…
March 9, 2023
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Senate Votes to Change Name of SIDS 

Says Term is Outdated and Vague  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate voted Wednesday to change a term commonly used for unknown deaths to an infant.  House Bill 1042 would change the term “sudden infant death syndrome” to “unexplained sudden death in an infant or child with or without…
March 8, 2023
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Benefits for Veteran Spouses Pass Senate 

Tuition and Tax Breaks  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed Wednesday a bill to provide financial benefits to surviving spouses of deceased veterans.  House Bill 1212 would allow spouses of deceased veterans to have access to higher education tuition waivers, property tax credits, and breaks on vehicle…
March 8, 2023
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Resolution Proposed to Change Term Limits  

Hearing Before House Committee  BISMARCK –A concurrent resolution that proposes changes to the North Dakota term limits initiated measure that passed with more than 63% of the vote in the November 2022 general election was the subject of a hearing Wednesday. HCR 3019 was one of the topics during a…
March 8, 2023
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Property Tax Elimination Ballot Option Considered 

North Dakota Legislative Resolution Hearing    lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A North Dakota legislative committee heard testimony on a concurrent resolution attempting to place the option of eliminating property tax on the November 2024 ballot.  The House Finance and Taxation committee heard Monday House Concurrent Resolution 3024, which, if passed, would…
March 6, 2023
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Legislature Considers Naming Shortest Highway 

Highway 91 Near Harvey  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Legislature can be full of many complicated bills, but some are simple and lighthearted.  The House Political Subdivisions heard Senate Bill 2146 Friday. The bill would designate Highway 91 near Harvey as the shortest highway in North Dakota and…
March 3, 2023
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Library, Citizens Discuss Book Legislation 

Meeting on How Books are Processed  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MINOT – Two bills with the intent to keep certain books away from minors were discussed at length at a recent public meeting.  The Minot Public Library held a meeting this week to talk to citizens and parents about the process of how…
March 3, 2023
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School Districts Seek Legislative Help 

Inflation Raises Construction Costs  MINOT – The cost of new school construction in Minot has risen dramatically since voters approved a bond issue to reconfigure an existing building into a new high school, make improvements to Magic City Campus and, to a lesser extent, Central Campus.  “When we passed that…
March 2, 2023
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High Interest Outdoors Bills Head to Senate 

Deer baiting, fishing tourney fees  BISMARCK – The North Dakota Game and Fish Department will no longer be allowed to impose a ban on the baiting of deer for hunting, if a bill that strode through the ND House of Representatives by a 76-18 version is also approved by the…
February 24, 2023
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House Moves to Expand Property Tax Relief for Seniors and Disabled 

Bill Sponsor: “It’s Not Good Enough”  MINOT – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Wednesday to provide property tax relief for more people who are disabled or over the age of 65.  House Bill 1211, after amendments, would raise the income thresholds of the homestead property tax credit…
February 23, 2023
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Raw Milk Sales Passes House 

lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill to allow sales of raw milk directly to consumers.  House Bill 1515 would allow farms to sell raw milk to consumers, though farms would still not be able to sell to wholesalers or retail stores for mass consumption. The…
February 23, 2023
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Adoption Bill Passes House 

Bill to Appropriate Funds  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to appropriate funds for child-placing agencies for the sake of home studies passed the North Dakota State House.  Rep. Jay Fisher, R-Dis. 5, Minot, sponsored House Bill 1375 which appropriates $262,000 from the general fund not otherwise appropriated to the Department…
February 22, 2023
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Flood Control, Flat Income Tax, and $5.5 Billion for Human Services Considered 

Bills to Cross Legislative Houses this Week  BISMARCK – Some significant spending bills have gone through the North Dakota State Senate, and an income tax bill through the House, with the crossover date approaching.  Senate Bill 2012, the largest spending bill for one agency, increased the Department of Health and…
February 22, 2023
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Minot Legislator's Medicaid Bill Passes House 

Bill to Require Certain Services  BISMARCK – A bill to prioritize medical assistance coverage passed the North Dakota State House Monday.   Rep. Randy Schobinger, R-Dis. 40, Minot, sponsored House Bill 1530, which requires medical assistance coverage to include family adaptive behavioral treatment, dental screening, dental case management for specific populations,…
February 21, 2023
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Property Tax Bill Passes Senate 

Provides Homestead Tax Credit  Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, R-Dis. 38, Minot, tells attendees at a recent legislative forum in Minot about the Senate’s passage of a bill to provide a Homestead Tax Credit. (Photo: Kim Fundingsland/The Dakotan)  MINOT – A bill to provide property tax relief passed the State…
February 20, 2023
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Changes to State Political Parties Fails the House 

Bipartisan Vote  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House killed a bill Friday to make changes to the state political parties and their districts.  House Bill 1523 would have made several changes to district parties, including changing the reorganization of the district parties until after redistricting, and allow them to…
February 20, 2023
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Record ND Budgets Proposed 

State Agencies Request Hefty Increases  BISMARCK – The crossover date for the North Dakota State Legislature is coming up on February 24, which means large spending bills will be coming out of both appropriations committees and will be considered on the House and Senate floors. Here’s what the legislators will…
February 18, 2023
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One Transgender Bill Passes, One Fails 

ND Representatives Debate Contentious Issue  BISMARCK – Two contentious transgender bills were considered on the North Dakota State House floor Friday, with one bill passing and the other failing.  House Bill 1254 would create a class B felony for healthcare providers who perform transgender surgeries or give gender-affirming medication to…
February 17, 2023
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Fishing Tourneys, Deer Baiting Tackled 

Lawmakers Seek Changes  BISMARCK – Two of the “hottest topic” bills involving outdoor issues were acted upon in the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee late Thursday. Both bills have generated a great deal of interest from hunters and fishermen.  HB1538 proposed a revision to the way Game and Fish…
February 17, 2023
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Eminent Domain Limitations Fail in ND Senate 

Legislators Discuss Property Rights  BISMARCK – Three bills limiting eminent domain failed in the North Dakota State Senate Thursday.  Senate Bill 2212 initially sought to remove the right of eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines. The sponsor of the bill, Sen. Jeff Magrum, R-Dis. 8, Hazleton, attempted to amend his…
February 17, 2023
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Adversary Land Ownership Bill Passes Senate 

North Dakota Senators Agree  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill Thursday prohibiting the land ownership of businesses based in countries that are listed as foreign adversaries by the federal government.  SB2371, if passed, would ban businesses headquartered in federally recognized adversary countries from acquiring land in…
February 16, 2023
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Ban on Social, Emotional Learning Fails House 

Bill to Prohibit Teachers Informing Students of Emotional Worldview  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to ban social, emotional learning failed in the North Dakota State House Wednesday.  House Bill 1526 would have prohibited teachers from informing students’ worldview based on emotions. It also sought to prohibit them from measuring the…
February 16, 2023
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Transgender Sports Bill Passes House 

BISMARCK – A bill to ban biological males from female sports passed the North Dakota State House Wednesday.   House Bill 1489 states “an athletic team or sport designated for females, women, or girls may not be open to students of the male sex.”  The bill passed by a vote of…
February 16, 2023
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Party Hunting Bill Meets Opposition 

Committee recommends Do Not Pass  Legislators in the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee said no to a bill Thursday that would have allowed a deer gun hunter kill deer for others in the field.  HB1377, the Party Hunting bill, proposed that any member of a deer hunting party of…
February 16, 2023
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ND Senate Amends Anti-FuFeng Bill 

Prohibit Foreign Adversary Land Ownership  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to prohibit North Dakota land ownership by foreign adversaries such as FuFeng near Grand Forks, was amended on the State Senate floor Wednesday.  SB2371, if passed, would ban businesses headquartered in federally recognized adversary countries from acquiring land in North…
February 15, 2023
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ND House Passes Harsher Penalties for Ballot Initiatives 

Two Bills on Ballot Measures   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to create penalties for willfully submitting invalid signatures for a ballot measure passed the North Dakota State House Tuesday.  House Bill 1230 seeks to create a fine for a chairman of a ballot measure initiative committee if the committee willfully…
February 15, 2023
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School Security Debate on ND House Floor 

Bill Initially Sought to Incentivize Firearms as a Form of Safety  BISMARCK – A bill that came before the North Dakota State House initially seeking to increase school security and incentivize schools to include firearms as a part of their security was amended to require a report from schools on…
February 14, 2023
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Changes Proposed to Deer Baiting Ban 

Includes CWD Task Force  BISMARCK – The presence of chronic wasting disease prompted the North Dakota Game and Fish Department to invoke a ban on hunter’s using bait piles to attract deer. CWD is a neurological disease known to be fatal for deer.   Game and Fish contends the practice of…
February 14, 2023
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Election Denier Speaks in Minot 

Tells Theory of Possible Election Fraud   MINOT – Several North Dakota citizens heard a call to action Monday to look into the possibility of election fraud in their own state.  Surface electro-chemist Dr. Douglas Frank, Ohio and founder of the website FrankSpeech, speaking at Living Word Lutheran Church, went through…
February 14, 2023
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How a North Dakota Legislative House Bill May Affect Audits like Williston School Findings

Auditor Responds to House Bill 1508 lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – A bill recently passed the North Dakota State House that may limit the abilities of the auditor’s office to uncover areas of concern such as the recent findings at Williston Public Schools’ district 1. State Auditor Josh Gallion recently responded on Facebook…
February 13, 2023
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Auditor’s Office Says Williston Schools Findings is a Rare and High Amount

Superintendent Responds to 21 Areas of Concern BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Auditor’s office is saying the 21 areas of concern found in its audit at Williston Public Schools’ district 1 is a rare and high amount. On February 1, the North Dakota State Auditor’s office found 21 total…
February 13, 2023
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Keeping the Legislature Orderly 

Sergeant at Arms  BISMARCK – There are some people at the North Dakota Capitol who have the tough job of monitoring the floor during the legislative session.  Roman Weiler, Mandan, has been a sergeant at arms for six legislative sessions, about 12 years. His job is to protect and assist…
February 12, 2023
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Senate Votes to Allow Vehicle Charging Station Funds 

Legislators Consider Federal Dollars  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to allow federal funds for electric vehicle charging stations passed the North Dakota State House Friday.  SB2063 would allow the state to use the $25.9 million from the federal infrastructure act to install electric vehicle charging stations, after amendments and much…
February 11, 2023
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Senate Passes Bills Relating to Parental Consent 

Legislators Address Gender Usage Bill  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed two bills relating to parental consent Friday.  SB2260 would prohibit a government entity from substantially burdening the right of parents to direct the upbringing of their child.  The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Bob Paulson, R-Dis. 3, Minot,…
February 11, 2023
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House Kills Paid Legislator Training 

Proposed Compensation  BISMARCK – A bill to compensate legislators for educational purposes failed in the North Dakota State House Thursday.   HB1395 would have provided each legislator with an account of up to $5,000 to compensate for online training, travel to national or regional conferences, and other expenses related to legislative…
February 10, 2023
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Senate Passes Study of mRNA Vaccines 

Legislators Discuss Health Effects  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate narrowly passed a bill Thursday to study the effects of an mRNA vaccine such as the COVID vaccine.  SB2384 was initially a bill that gave a class A misdemeanor for any person who administered a vaccine developed using…
February 10, 2023
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Senate Extends Membership Radius for Credit Unions 

Increase to 125 miles  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate narrowly passed a bill Thursday that increases the miles for the radius of membership for credit unions.  Senate Bill 2266 initially increased the radius of credit unions’ membership from 75 miles to 250 miles. Tthe committee amended it…
February 10, 2023
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Infertility Coverage Defeated in House 

North Dakota Legislators Weigh Cost  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House defeated a bill Thursday that would have required the Public Employees Retirement System board to provide fertility treatment for public employees.  House Bill 1146 requires the PERS board to provide coverage for the diagnosis, treatment, and standard…
February 9, 2023
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Outdoor Issues at State Legislature 

Party hunting, deer baiting, fishing tournament fees  BISMARCK – Two outdoor related bills were presented to the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee Thursday, the most anticipated being HB1377 which would allow party hunting for deer. Currently each recipient of a deer license tag is required to harvest their own…
February 9, 2023
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Election for Beef Commission Fails House 

Bill to Outline an Election Process    BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Wednesday that provides an election process for members of the North Dakota Beef Commission.  House Bill 1436 would outline an election process for the membership of the North Dakota Beef Commission, so those…
February 9, 2023
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House Passes Tax Break for Charity Owned Land 

Minot’s Trinity Hospital Discussed  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill Wednesday that exempts public charities from being taxed on undeveloped properties they own.  Receiving a 10-2 Do Not Pass recommendation in its committee, House Bill 1438 would exempt public charities from paying taxes on their…
February 9, 2023
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Senate Defeats Harsher Penalty for Guns in Schools 

ND Legislators Discuss Second Amendment  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to raise the penalty for the possession of firearms in a public school failed the North Dakota State Senate Wednesday.  Senate Bill 2355 would have raised the penalty for the possession of firearms in a school or school-sponsored event on…
February 9, 2023
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Insulin Copay Cap Passes Senate 

A Bill for North Dakota Public Employees’ Health Benefit Plan  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill that puts restrictions on insulin insurance for public employees passed the North Dakota State Senate Wednesday.  The carrier of Senate Bill 2140, Sen. Kristin Roers, R-Dis. 27, Fargo, described the bill as a mandate of…
February 8, 2023
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NDGOP Reacts to State of the Union Speech 

Biden’s “Direct Attack” on North Dakotans  TRENTON – Perrie Schafer, Chairman of the North Dakota Republican Party, released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s State of the Union Address:    “We not only heard Joe Biden completely mislead the American people about a radical economic agenda that has left us…
February 8, 2023
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Eminent Domain Issue at Legislature 

Lawmakers at Minot Forum  MINOT – Two pieces of legislation aimed at revising the financial implications of eminent domain have been placed before both Senate and House lawmakers at the current session of the North Dakota legislature. Both bills would increase valuations for landowners.  “The bill in the House and…
February 6, 2023
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Cigar Bill Detailed by Sponsor 

Seeks to Allow Cigar Bars and Lounges  MINOT – Opponents say the “cigar bill” under consideration at the current session of the ND Legislature is ill advised and goes against the state’s smoke free law enacted by a statewide initiated measure several years ago.  Rep. Dan Ruby, R-Dis 38, Minot,…
February 6, 2023
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Showing People North Dakota's Tallest Building 

Working at the Capitol for Thirty-Six Years  BISMARCK – As complicated as the North Dakota legislative process can be, there are some people who have been working there for a long time that will give a helping hand.  Marsha Lembke, Bismarck, a legislative tour guide at the North Dakota State…
February 5, 2023
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Senate Leader Addresses Livestock Bill, Property Tax Relief 

Sen. David Hogue, R-Dis. 38, Minot, Majority Leader  MINOT – A bill being scrutinized during the current session of the North Dakota legislature seeks to encourage large scale livestock and poultry operations in the state. Sen. David Hogue, R-Dis. 38, Minot, and Senate majority leader, explained the essence of HB…
February 4, 2023
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Nonprofits Set up at Capitol 

NDANO Spreads Awareness  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Nonprofits work hard in North Dakota, in so many different ways, both to do what they do and bring awareness to it. One unique way they bring awareness is their advocacy at the state legislature.  With the legislature in session this year, several nonprofits…
February 3, 2023
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Minimum Wage Increase Fails House 

North Dakota Legislature Kills Bill   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – An attempt to increase minimum wage failed in the North Dakota State House Friday.  House Bill 1507 would have increased the state minimum wage from $7.25 to $9.00 per hour.  The bill failed by a vote of 80 to 13. 
February 3, 2023
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Daycare Liability Resurfaces, Fails 

North Dakota State House Defeats Mandated Insurance  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A legislative bill that would require daycare providers to have liability insurance resurfaced in the North Dakota State House after failing Thursday, and failed again Friday.  House Bill 1298 would have mandated liability insurance for early childhood programs such as…
February 3, 2023
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House Defeats Paid Family Leave 

North Dakota Legislators Debate  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House killed a bill Thursday to provide family leave for employees.  House Bill 1460 requested the labor commissioner to establish a division to administer a paid family leave program.   A video of the lengthy discussion can be found here. The…
February 3, 2023
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House Defines Humans Rights

Bill Heads to Senate BISMARCK – A bill passed the North Dakota State House Thursday that defines human rights as superior to non-human rights. House Bill 1361 states an individual's rights are superior to environmental elements, artificial intelligence, animals, inanimate objects, corporations, or government entities. Supporters stated the purpose of…
February 3, 2023
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House Defeats Diversity Funds Bill

Revolving Loan for Businesses Owned by Women, Veterans, Minorities BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House defeated a bill Thursday that would provide revolving loan funds to businesses owned by women, minorities, and veterans. House Bill 1420 proposed that the Bank of North Dakota may provide a revolving loan fund…
February 3, 2023
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Legislators Act to Reduce Years Required for Teacher Status 

ND House Approves Change from Thirty to Twenty Years  BISMARCK – The House voted Thursday to reduce the years required for a teacher to be eligible for a lifetime teaching license.  House Bill 1329 reduces the years for a teacher to receive a lifetime license from 30 years to 20…
February 2, 2023
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Drug Price Study Fails Senate 

North Dakota Lawmakers Defeat Bill    lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A bill to study the possibility of controlling of excessive prescription drug prices failed on the North Dakota State Senate floor Thursday.  Senate Bill 2031 would require the insurance commissioner to design and implement a prescription drug reference rate pilot program…
February 2, 2023
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State Considers Exemptions for Private Education 

School Choice Bills Heard at Legislature  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – A legislative bill to reimburse private schools had a hearing Wednesday in the North Dakota House Education committee.  House Bill 1532 would require school districts to provide funds to private schools. It was heard in the House Education committee.  The bill sponsor, Rep.…
February 2, 2023
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Legislative Bill on Cardiac Event Compensation 

Lawmaker Questions COVID Vaccine BISMARCK – The COVID-19 vaccine was questioned in the North Dakota State House chambers Wednesday in discussion of a bill that adjusts standards for the compensation provided for cardiac events of firefighters and law enforcement related to their occupation.  Rep. Jim Jonas, R-Dis. 13, West Fargo,…
February 1, 2023
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Marijuana Bill Resurfaces, Fails 

Debate on North Dakota House Floor  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House narrowly defeated a bill Wednesday to allow the production and sale of edible, medical cannabis products.  House Bill 1202, which allows the sale of edible, medical cannabis products, requiring 63 votes to pass, was previously defeated…
February 1, 2023
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ND Senate Votes for Oil, Gas Scholarships 

Reversal of Do Not Pass Recommendation  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate voted Tuesday to allow scholarships based on the oil and gas industry.  Senate Bill 2197 allows the state board of higher education to award a scholarship of up to $16,000 to an individual who has worked in…
February 1, 2023
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Legislative Hit and Run 

ND Senate Passes Penalty for Damaged Property, Animals   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed Tuesday a bill to add any property or animals damaged by a vehicle to the hit and run laws.  Current law creates a class B misdemeanor for individuals who damage a vehicle and…
February 1, 2023
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ND House Passes Bill Addressing Voting Systems 

Vote on Cannabis Bill, Pledge of Allegiance  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed Tuesday a bill addressing the state’s voting systems.   House Bill 1192 removes the word “electronic” from the century code relating to voting systems, so that all voting systems, electronic or not, must be tested. It…
January 31, 2023
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Senate Moves to Clean Up Abortion Laws 

Debate in North Dakota Legislature  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed Tuesday a lengthy bill that its sponsor says cleans up current abortion laws.  The bill carrier and sponsor, Sen. Janne Myrdal, R-Dis. 19, Edinburg, described Senate Bill 2150 as a cleanup bill on laws that already exist…
January 31, 2023
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Public Engages Legislators 

Forum Held in Minot  MINOT – The first of six scheduled Minot legislative forums gave citizens an opportunity to quiz area legislators, primarily on bills pending in the current session of the North Dakota legislature.  The format for the exchange between lawmakers and voters was simple, written questions only. Those…
January 31, 2023
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Minot Related Legislative Bills 

State Legislature Considers Funds  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – With North Dakota’s general fund projected to increase around two billion dollars, the State Legislature has received billions of dollars in appropriation requests. Some of those funds are being considered for the City of Minot.  On many people’s minds is flood control. Senate…
January 30, 2023
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North Dakota landowners at odds in carbon pipeline plans 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  North Dakota landowners testified for and against a carbon capture company's use of eminent domain Friday, as Summit Carbon Solutions moves forward in constructing a massive underground system of carbon dioxide pipelines spanning 2,000 miles across several states and under hundreds of people's…
January 28, 2023
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Legislators Address Drag Shows

Bill Passes North Dakota House  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed Thursday restrictions on cabaret performances, which includes drag shows.  House Bill 1333 prohibits adult cabaret performances on public property and in the line of vision of a minor. The bill creates a class A misdemeanor for…
January 27, 2023
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Minot Area Legislative Forums Begin This Weekend 

Six Scheduled For 2023   Minot – The Minot Area Chamber EDC Government Affairs Committee invites the community to engage with their local lawmakers at the first of six Legislative Forums to be held throughout the 68th Legislative Assembly.   WHAT: Legislative Forum   WHEN: Saturday, January 28 | 9:00 AM…
January 26, 2023
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Cigar Lounges Pass North Dakota House  

Receives Majority Approval  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill that would allow businesses to have cigar bars and lounges.  A cigar bar, a place where people go to smoke cigars, is defined in the bill as a bar that generates two percent or more of…
January 26, 2023
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House Defeats Senior Tax Relief 

North Dakota Property Tax Debate  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House defeated a bill Tuesday that would exempt those 65 years old and older from paying property tax.  House Bill 1380, which would eliminate property tax for homeowners 65 years old and older, failed in the House by…
January 25, 2023
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North Dakota Hearings on Vaccine Bills 

Lengthy Committee Debate  BISMARCK – The North Dakota House and Human Services committee heard much testimony Monday on bills relating to vaccine transparency and mandates.  House Bill 1207 would require the Department of Health and Human Services to publish vaccine adverse events on its website.  The sponsor of the bill,…
January 24, 2023
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Hot Topic: Deer Baiting Bill 

Hundreds Testify Pro and Con  BISMARCK – House Bill 1151 is perhaps the most talked about bill at this year’s session of the North Dakota State Legislature. It also may be shortest.  HB 1151 – Baiting deer for hunting not prohibited.  The department may not issue rules or adopt a…
January 24, 2023
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House Passes Thanksgiving Alcohol Sales 

Narrow Vote in North Dakota Capitol  BISMARCK – North Dakota citizens might be allowed to buy and sell alcohol on Thanksgiving Day after the narrow House vote Friday.   Though on-premise sales are currently allowed, House Bill 1335 would change the North Dakota Century Code to allow off-sale transactions of alcohol.…
January 23, 2023
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Curling Sweeps Through Senate

Proposed as official state sport lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill to make curling the official state sport Friday, filling the chambers with sports jokes and laughter.  Senate Bill 2229, which would make curling the state’s official sport, passed by a vote of 30 to…
January 20, 2023
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LGBTQ people, allies dodge $1,500 fines in North Dakota 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  As more than a dozen states consider passing anti-transgender legislation this year, North Dakota lawmakers rejected a bill Friday that would have made people pay $1,500 each time they refer to themselves or others with gender pronouns different from the ones they were…
January 20, 2023
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Term Limits Study Bill Sparks Discussion  

Senate Vote Unanimous BISMARCK – A bill to study the effects of term limits started a discussion in the North Dakota State Senate Thursday.  Citizens of North Dakota collected enough signatures to put term limits on last November's ballot, where it passed by a wide margin. The measure limits a…
January 20, 2023
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Hearing on the Pledge of Allegiance 

North Dakota State House Committee  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Two bills on the Pledge of Allegiance were heard before a North Dakota State House committee Thursday.  The House Government and Veterans Affairs committee heard House Bill 1172, which would prohibit any executive officer or employee from altering the language of the…
January 19, 2023
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Senate Expands Homeschooling Deadline, Raffle Days 

Income Tax Removed on Retirement Benefits for Law Enforcement   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill that would give more time to parents in registering in their school district for homeschooling their child.   Senate Bill 2167 changes the filing date from 14 days to five days…
January 19, 2023
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Ban on Forced Abortion Passes North Dakota House 

Religion Questions on Floor  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a ban on coerced and forced abortions Wednesday with only one representative voting against it.  House Bill 1171 creates a class C felony for the coercion or forcing of abortion, passing the House Health and Human Services Committee…
January 18, 2023
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Sen. Cramer Reacts to WOTUS  

WOTUS Definition Published in the Federal Register  BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers publishing a new definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) in…
January 18, 2023
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Party Deer Hunting Proposed 

Legislators to Decide  BISMARCK – A bill that would allow deer hunters to shoot deer for others has been introduced in the North Dakota legislature.   Known as the “party hunting” bill, HB 1377 would allow hunting groups of up to 10 license holders to harvest 10 deer without regard to…
January 18, 2023
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Large Increase for Agricultural Land Tax

2023 Ward County Valuations lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – Farmers will see an increase in their taxes of almost seven percent due to the County Commissioners’ vote Tuesday. Noreen Barton, director of tax equalization, said she is required by the North Dakota Century Code to certify to the Commissioners each year the…
January 17, 2023
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Upcoming Bills Before State Legislature 

Introduced by Republicans, Democrats  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Several interesting bills have been introduced in the current session of the State Legislature, with some that may be agreed upon by most lawmakers and some that may not.  Senator Bob Paulson, R-Dis. 3, Minot, introduced Senate Bill 2247, which would prohibit institutions…
January 16, 2023
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House Defines Sex  

Senate Expands Anti-Explicit Image Law  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Much discussion and debate was had on the House floor Friday over the definition of male and female.  House Bill 1139, which defines sex, passed the House floor with a vote of 81 to 11.  The bill carrier, Representative Brandon Prichard, R-Dis.…
January 16, 2023
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ND Legislature Mulls Bill Sponsorship 

Seeks State Employee Benefits Clarification   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – Several interesting bills are being introduced this session in the North Dakota Legislature.  Representative Nathan Toman, R-Dis. 34, Mandan, introduced House Bill 1285, which would require bills coming from the executive branch’s agencies or the judicial branch to be sponsored or requested…
January 13, 2023
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Prison Product Bill Defeated 

Personal Use Sales Fail in North Dakota State House  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The sales of products built by state prison inmates sold to government agencies attempted to expand Thursday.  Currently, products made in the prison industry may be sold to government agencies. House Bill 1065 added state employees to the…
January 13, 2023
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Sports Betting Resolution Passes North Dakota House 

Minot Representatives’ Mixed Speeches  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Sports betting may be a measure on the November 2024 ballot for citizens of North Dakota.  The House narrowly passed House Concurrent Resolution 3002 by a vote of 49 to 44. The resolution would put sports betting on the general election ballot as…
January 12, 2023
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Property Tax Notice Reform Struck Down 

Fails in North Dakota House lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House struck down a Minot legislator’s version of property tax reform Wednesday.  Representative Larry Bellew, Dis. R-38, Minot and sponsor of House Bill 1126, described it as a reduction of the amount of assessment increase required to notify…
January 12, 2023
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Committee Hearing on Flat Tax Rate 

Governor's Income Tax Plan Debated  BISMARCK – Not all were in agreement with Republican Governor Doug Burgum’s flat rate income tax plan Wednesday when it was heard in committee.  Burgum presented the plan, House Bill 1158, which is a one and a half percent flat tax rate, to the House…
January 11, 2023
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Bill over abortion court leak struck down in North Dakota 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  Months after the unprecedented leak of the U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade, lawmakers in North Dakota considered — and struck down — a bill to criminalize court leaks on Tuesday.  Introduced by the North Dakota Supreme Court, the…
January 11, 2023
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ND Considers Legal Sports Betting Outside of Tribal Casinos 

By TRISHA AHMED Associated Press/Report for America  Amid ongoing efforts to legalize sports betting in North Dakota — and expand it beyond the tribal casinos, where it's already allowed — a House panel heard arguments Monday over a measure to let voters decide the issue next year.  "Passage of this…
January 10, 2023
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North Dakota Files Lawsuit  

Sen. Cramer Cites Federal Government Overreach on State, Private Mineral Leasing Matters  BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following statement on North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley filing suit against the U.S. Department of the Interior for the…
January 9, 2023
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North Dakota Legislators' Goals

Lawmakers Share Their Thoughts lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – Lawmakers have over a week of legislative work under their belts, but still many more to go. A few legislators shared their goals for this session. Representative Matt Heilman, R-Dis. 7, Bismarck, is one of the many new members this session and only…
January 9, 2023
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First Official Legislative Day 

Gaveling in Session  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The legislature began its first day of session Tuesday, preceding a light work week for lawmakers The intensity of the work is projected to increase throughout the next few weeks.  Largely ceremonial, Tuesday began with a Tribal-State relationship and State of the Judiciary message…
January 3, 2023
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Legislative Council Prepares 

Upcoming Session Looking Full    lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – Lawmakers are often at the forefront of legislative sessions, but behind the scenes several people work to make it happen.  John Bjornson, director of legislative council, said Monday there’s an extensive number of tasks needed to be done to prepare for session. …
January 2, 2023
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Sen. Cramer on $1.7 Funding Bill 

This afternoon the U.S. Senate passed a $1.7 trillion government funding bill. It now heads over to the House of Representatives for final passage. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, released the following statement:   “I continue to oppose the utter dysfunction of Congress. Ramming through must-pass bills like this omnibus spending package…
December 22, 2022
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Burgum appoints Chief Operating Officer Tammy Miller to serve as lieutenant governor 

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced the appointment of Governor’s Office Chief Operating Officer Tammy Miller, former CEO of Border States, to succeed Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford as lieutenant governor of North Dakota. Miller begins her new role on Jan. 3.  Miller has served as chief operating officer in the Governor’s…
December 20, 2022
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Sen. Cramer Statement on Lieutenant Governor Brent Sanford 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, issued the following statement after Lieutenant Governor Brent Sanford announced his resignation:  “Kris and I thank Lieutenant Governor Sanford for his work for and dedication to our great state during the past six years. Brent’s long and decorated career in public service took…
December 20, 2022
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Lt. Gov. Sanford Resigns 

Gov. Burgum to appoint successor  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford announced Tuesday he will resign Jan. 2, citing a desire to return to the private sector and focus on his family and career.  Gov. Doug Burgum, in a statement, said Sanford "has made a positive impact on…
December 20, 2022
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North Dakota annual sessions may gain traction with term limits

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press BISMARCK (AP) — North Dakota lawmakers for decades have consistently rebuffed attempts to hold annual regular Legislative sessions, arguing that doing so would grow government and turn lawmaking into a full-time job. But with voter-approved term limits now on the books, the idea of having…
December 13, 2022

North Dakota Proposed Bills Addressing Transgender Surgeries 

Freshman Legislator Introduces Ideas lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK — Some legislators are drafting bills that would address transgender surgeries on minors. Representative Brandon Prichard, R-Dis. 8, Bismarck, is planning to sponsor a bill that would provide a civil penalty to such surgeries, wherein the person that was affected by the surgery could…
December 9, 2022
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Legislators Wrap Up Orientation

What they Expect for Upcoming Session lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – Legislators finished up a three-day organizational session Wednesday, and some in the leadership told The Dakotan what they expect for the upcoming legislature starting in January. The election in November brought in a large amount of turnover for this year’s legislature.…
December 8, 2022
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Gov. Burgum unveils record $18.4B proposed state budget 

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum on Wednesday unveiled a proposed $18.4 billion budget that increases state spending by more than 3% and includes $3 billion in infrastructure funding, and increases workforce development funding and public employee salaries.  The second-term Republican governor's…
December 7, 2022
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Rallying Against the Great Reset 

Small Gathering at the Capitol  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – As legislators readied themselves this week with orientation for the upcoming session, one group rallied Tuesday to bring awareness to what they believe to be a global threat.  Sebastian Ertelt, Lisbon, former state legislator and primary organizer of the rally, called it…
December 7, 2022
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Fjeldahl Elected Chair

Olson Takes His Seat lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – Commissioner John Fjeldahl was elected chairman of the Ward County commission Tuesday. Fjeldahl was nominated by Commissioner Howard Anderson, and won a silent ballot vote of 3-2, though he himself nominated previous Chairman Jim Rostad. Rostad nominated Commissioner Shelly Weppler for the vice…
December 6, 2022
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North Dakota lawmakers to organize for 2023 Legislature 

Return to Capitol City  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota lawmakers will return to Bismarck next week to prepare for the 2023 Legislature, where they will lobby for prime committee assignments and get briefings on legislative procedures and ethics.  The three-day organizational session that begins Monday also includes such mundane…
December 1, 2022
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Minoter Makes History

David Hogue to Lead Senate
November 21, 2022
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Minoter Makes Legislative History 

David Hogue is Senate Majority Leader  MINOT – David Hogue, R-District 38, was elected Senate Majority Caucus Leader by fellow legislators on the evening of November 14 at the State Capitol, making Hogue the first Minot resident ever elected to the position according to the N.D. Legislature website. Records on…
November 21, 2022
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Chairman Discusses Term Limits, Legislative Session 

ND Legislature begins in January  MINOT – North Dakota voters overwhelmingly approved passage of Initiated Constitutional Measure No. 1 in the November 8 election. The measure places limits on the amount of time the governor or legislators can serve.  Ward County voters voiced their approval with a 59% yes vote.…
November 19, 2022
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Government Should Not Be Involved in the Marriage Business 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, issued the following statement after voting in opposition to the Respect for Marriage Act:   “Today’s vote is the first step leading to the normalization of religious discrimination, and it’s a bridge too far. The Respect for Marriage Act opens up religious institutions and non-profits…
November 17, 2022
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Minoter Chosen to Senate Leadership 

North Dakota GOP lawmakers elect House, Senate floor leaders  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — New House and Senate leaders have been elected by Republican majorities in the North Dakota Legislature.  Sen. David Hogue, a Minot lawyer, and Rep. Mike Lefor, a Dickinson businessman, were chosen Monday night to serve two-year leadership…
November 15, 2022
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County Commission Shuffle 

Olsons gains commissioner seat  MINOT – Jason Olson is the newest member of the Ward County Commission. Olson, Minot, and John Fjeldahl, Berthold, were the top two vote getters in Tuesday’s election for two spots on the commission.  Fjeldahl and Olson each received 29% of the vote, 8.318 to 8,253.…
November 9, 2022
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New City Councilman

Burlingame Bests Streyle for Unexpired Term MINOT – Scott Burlingame defeated Roscoe Streyle in Tuesday’s election, ending Streyle’s brief time on City Council. Streyle was appointed to the council in July to fill the unexpired term of Mayor Tom Ross. Ross vacated his council seat after winning the mayoral race. …
November 9, 2022
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North Dakota voters OK term limits for governor, legislators 

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Voters in North Dakota on Tuesday approved term limits for their governor and state legislators after a campaign largely funded by an outside term limits group and boosted within the state by far-right conservatives.  The ballot measure adds an article to…
November 9, 2022
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Complete Election Results 

ND Secretary of State website  The latest election returns for North Dakota can be found at:   Secretary of State | (nd.gov) 
November 8, 2022
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Election Day Voter Turnout

Polling sites busy MINOT – Activity appeared to be brisk at two polling locations in the city this Election Day, but the total number of voters filling out ballots won’t be known until after the polls close at 7 p.m. At mid-morning at the State Fair Center one poll worker…
November 8, 2022
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North Dakota sees advertising, campaign blitz before vote 

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — After months of crisscrossing the state stumping everywhere from tiny town cafes to big city venues, North Dakota's U.S. House candidates were making a final push Monday attempting to garner voter support mostly through social media and television and radio interviews…
November 7, 2022
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Election Day Information 

Where, when to vote MINOT – Here is election information for eligible Ward County voters.   2022 GENERAL ELECTION- NOVEMBER 8TH Early Voting: Monday, Nov. 7th from 10am-6pm @ Ward County Administration Building  Election Day Vote Centers 7am-7pm:   *Ward County Voters can vote at any of the centers*    >State Fair Center (Minot) 2005…
November 7, 2022
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Large Turnout at Dakota Patriot Rally 

Decorated speaker delivers strong message  MINOT – What was promoted as an evening to join fellow patriots proved to be a very large gathering at the State Fair Center Thursday evening. The Dakota Patriot Rally featured Lt. Col. Daniel MacArthur Gade as the featured speaker.  Gade was born in Minot…
November 4, 2022
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Letter Supporting Term Limits 

Election Day November 8  A YES vote on Measure 1 will be good for North Dakota. It would apply an 8-year term limit to the ND Governor, and members of the State House and State Senate.  Term limits improve citizen access to the process, encourage more candidates to run, and increase…
November 4, 2022
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North Dakota: What to expect on election night 

By The Associated Press   Tuesday's ballot offers some intrigue for North Dakotans in the reliably red state — from late congressional entries by independent candidates to term limits and marijuana legalization.  North Dakotans will decide whether to endorse changing the state constitution to limit the terms of the governor…
November 3, 2022
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Sen. Cramer Sounds Off on Biden’s Energy Policy 

Views on Possible Senate Majority  News release: BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, joined Larry Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss President Joe Biden’s recent calls for a windfall tax on energy companies. He also discussed a strategy to increase…
November 3, 2022
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North Dakota County Elections 

Races Outside Ward County  By Kim Fundingsland and Lydia Hoverson  kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com   lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MINOT -- Some counties in the Ward County area have contested races this election, giving voters decisions to be made within the next week. Absentee and early voting is underway with Election Day November 8.  McHenry County  Two…
November 2, 2022
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Election Enthusiasm 

Expected voter turnout   MINOT – Election Day is November 8, but absentee and early voting is already underway. Given the political atmosphere across the country, many might expect larger than usual number of votes to be cast.   However, it is a non-presidential election year, which traditionally means substantially fewer votes…
November 1, 2022
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Early Voting Underway 

Election information  MINOT – Early voting for the upcoming general election got underway Monday morning at the Ward County Administration Building.  Here is election information for eligible Ward County voters.   2022 GENERAL ELECTION- NOVEMBER 8TH Early Voting: October 31st through November 4th & 7th from 10am-6pm @ Ward County Administration Building  Election…
October 31, 2022
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Two for Vacant Council Seat

Candidates Race for City Council Seat MINOT – Two candidates are in the race for a vacant council seat left vacant after former council member Tom Ross was elected mayor in June. The council voted to temporarily fill the seat in July with former state legislator Roscoe Streyle. They also…
October 30, 2022
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North Dakota election systems 'incredibly secure' 

Auditor Josh Gaillian’s review  By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The state auditor said Thursday that an examination of North Dakota's electoral systems conducted in response to voter concerns found that they are "incredibly secure."  Auditor Josh Gallion said he undertook the review in response to concerns…
October 28, 2022
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Poll workers can't demand proof of US citizenship 

Wrigley: No power to do that  FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Some poll workers in North Dakota who created confusion and frustration in the spring primary by demanding proof of United State citizenship, particularly from immigrants and people of color, had no power to do that, the state attorney general says. …
October 27, 2022
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County Commissioner Race On 

Candidates make their pitch to voters  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MINOT – The race is on for the candidates of the Ward County commission as they round third and head home for Election Day on November 8, with early voting starting soon.  Four candidates are contending for two positions, with only one residing…
October 27, 2022
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Lawmakers: Term limit defeat has chance with groups' support 

Measure on November ballot  By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's Republican legislative majority leaders on Wednesday predicted a narrow defeat by voters on a measure to impose term limits on lawmakers and the governor.  Republican Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner and GOP House Majority Leader…
October 26, 2022
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Trio of Candidates Seek Single Seat  

North Dakota’s U.S. Senate Race  MINOT – Three candidates are on the ballot for a North Dakota seat in the United States Senate – incumbent John Hoeven, R-ND, Jamestown challenger Katrina Christiansen-D, and Bismarck challenger Rick Becker, an Independent. Election day is Tuesday, November 8.  Hoeven was the choice of…
October 26, 2022
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North Dakota’s U.S. House Race 

Two candidates seek election  MINOT – Two candidates are on the ballot for a North Dakota’s lone seat in the United States House of Representatives – Republican incumbent Kelly Armstrong of Bismarck, who is seeking his second term, and independent challenger Cara Mund, Bismarck, who is making her first run…
October 25, 2022
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Dakota Patriot Rally Set 

A gathering of conservatives  MINOT – Election Day, November 8, is fast approaching. So too is a big event sponsored by the District 3, 5, 38, and 40 Republicans. It will be held Thursday, Nov. 3 at the State Fair Center.  “Obviously it is for the mid-term election,” said Stephanie…
October 21, 2022
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Who will be North Dakota’s Next Secretary of State? 

Three choices on the ballot kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com MINOT -- Secretary of State Al Jaeger, a Republican, is not seeking reelection. That means, for the first time in more than 30 years, someone other than Jaeger will take over the duties of North Dakota Secretary of State.   Three candidates are on…
October 19, 2022
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Term Limits Trouble

Foes lack cash to mount opposition  By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A campaign over whether to impose term limits on North Dakota lawmakers and the governor is a mismatch so far — at least financially.  U.S. Term Limits, a Washington, D.C.-based group, has contributed more than…
October 13, 2022
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Seeking Office as an Independent 

Trio of non-party candidates on ballot  MINOT – Three independent candidates for major offices are on the statewide ballot for the upcoming November election. All are facing candidates endorsed by a political party.  Seeking to learn more about the challenges facing an independent candidate, the Dakotan contacted each of the…
October 13, 2022
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ND Officials Oppose Term Limits 

Letter dated Oct. 5, 2022   North Dakotans will vote on a measure this fall to limit the governor and state legislators to two four-year terms. While some of us support term limits, others oppose. However, we unanimously agree that voters should reject this ill-conceived measure. Its overly restrictive design…
October 7, 2022
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NDFB, Farmers Union opposed to term limits 

Official statement  North Dakota Farm Bureau and North Dakota Farmers Union announce their joint opposition to an initiated measure that will appear on the November election ballot, limiting the time in office a governor or state legislator can serve.  If passed, the constitutional amendment would limit the governor to two…
October 6, 2022
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Term Limits Turning Heads 

Issue on upcoming ballot  MINOT – A term limits measure will be on the ballot in the general election November 8. However, it took a stern rebuke from the North Dakota Supreme Court to ensure voters would have the right to decide the issue.  On September 7, the Supreme Court…
October 5, 2022
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Candidates lash out at Hoeven 

North Dakota Senate Debate  WASHBURN – What began as a pleasant exchange of ideas and positions ended with some very contentious moments. In between was frequent tongue lashing of Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND.  United States Senate candidates Katrina Christiansen-D, and Rick Becker-Ind., were on stage for a debate at this…
October 4, 2022

Becker: Teen Death could still have been Political

Response to Authorities saying Little Evidence of Political Argument lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  BISMARCK – Authorities have reported that there is little evidence of a political argument before the killing of Cayler Ellingson, 18, in McHenry on September 18, but some conservatives are saying it could have still been politically motivated. According to…
September 26, 2022
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Legislation Introduced to Stop Ban of Lead Ammo, Fishing Tackle 

Senators Hoeven, Cramer Join Action  WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week joined Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) in introducing the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2022. This legislation would prohibit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management…
September 23, 2022
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Jim Kasper Seeks House Majority Leader 

Eleven Session Fargo Republican  Fargo -- Representative Jim Kasper, a house member from District 46 in Fargo, has announced that he is seeking to become next House Majority Leader in the State Legislature.  Kasper has served in the legislature since 2000 and is currently the Chairman of the Government and…
September 23, 2022
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Hoeven Declines ND Senate Debate  

Statewide TV Event Set for Washburn  Bismarck – BEK TV will host an exclusive prime time live statewide broadcast of a North Dakota U.S. Senate debate on Monday, October 3, from 7-9 p.m., located in Washburn’s Memorial Hall, 805 Main Avenue.    Confirmed candidates include Democrat Katrina Christiansen and Independent Rick…
September 16, 2022
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Biden Nominates US Attorney in North Dakota 

Former Senate Minority Leader Tabbed  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Former state Senate Democratic minority leader McLain "Mac" Schneider has been nominated by President Joe Biden for the state's top federal prosecutor job.  He would replace acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Puhl.  Schneider must be confirmed by the Senate. North Dakota Republican…
September 15, 2022
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AG Challenges Abortion Law Stay

North Dakota asks judge to lift stay on abortion trigger law BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The North Dakota attorney general's office asked a judge Thursday to lift his stay on a trigger law banning abortion, arguing he failed to make the state's lone abortion clinic show a likelihood of winning…
September 9, 2022
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Abatement Denied, Fairness Questioned

Council Votes to Deny Abatement Request lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – A request for a tax abatement was denied by the Minot city council and fairness was questioned. The Minot city council voted Tuesday to deny a tax refund or abatement requested by HL Development, LLC for two vacant lots located near…
September 9, 2022
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Home Sweet Home and Beyond

Council Votes RFP for Home Sweet Home lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – Questions about properties were raised as the council made decisions on how to deal with Home Sweet Home. The Minot city council voted Tuesday to set up a Request For Proposal for the disposal of a property where the building…
September 8, 2022
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Term Limit Backer Responds to Win

BISMARCK – North Dakota voters will see term limits on the ballot this November. “We always knew that our committee had complied fully with state law and submitted more than enough signatures to the Secretary of State,” said Jared Hendrix, the North Dakota Term limits Chair. “The State Supreme Court…
September 7, 2022
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Court Orders Term Limits on Ballot

ND high court orders term-limits measure on November ballot BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The North Dakota Supreme Court has ordered a ballot measure asking whether voters want term limits on the governor and legislators should be placed on the November ballot.Supporters of the measure asked the high court to compel…
September 7, 2022
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Council Votes to Repeal Ban on Pit Bulls

lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – The Minot City Council voted Tuesday on the first reading of repealing the ban on Pit Bulls. The motion was presented by Councilwoman Carrie Evans to repeal ordinance 7-34, regulation of Pit Bulls, which prohibits residents from owning animals that are predominantly of breeds known as Pit…
September 7, 2022
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Commissioners Frustrated

Weed Problems Continue lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  MINOT – Weeds appear to plague parts of Minot as commissioners of Ward County discussed Tuesday how to deal with a property that is within city limits but not part of the city. An abandoned, weed-filled property just south of Erik Ramstad Middle School has caused…
September 6, 2022

Becker on the Ballot

BISMARCK -- Noth Dakota State Representative Dr. Rick Becker releases the following statement, announcing his candidacy for the United States Senate, after submitting more than double the number of signatures needed to qualify for the ballot: “America is on the precipice of losing everything. Inflation is through the roof, crime…
September 6, 2022

House Dem Drops Race

Ex-Miss America Mund's entry pushes Dem out of ND House race BISMARCK (AP) — Former Miss America Cara Mund's entry into North Dakota's U.S. House race has led the Democratic candidate to drop out, citing pressure from his own party to step aside.Mund entered the race in August as an…
September 6, 2022
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Supreme Court Hears Petition Dispute

 Deadline Approaches to Allow Terms Limits Measure on Ballot  kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com BISMARCK – The North Dakota Supreme Court heard the case Friday morning involving the rejection of thousands of signatures on petitions submitted to the Secretary of State. The petitions were to allow a term limits measure to be placed on…
September 2, 2022
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Differing Tax Views

Minot Legislators React to Governor's Proposed Tax Plan lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MINOT – Several tax ideas have been presented by Minot legislators and candidates after Governor Doug Burgum presented his tax plan.  The plan proposed by Burgum would shrink the tax rate for higher income earners with a 1.5% flat tax, and…
August 31, 2022
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Hoeven Slams Biden Administration

News Release: HOEVEN STATEMENT ON BIDEN STUDENT DEBT CANCELLATION   GRAND FORKS – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after President Biden announced his plan to cancel student debt.    “The Democrats’ reckless spending has caused record-high inflation, and now the Biden administration wants to spend billions more…
August 24, 2022
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Cramer Bashes Biden "Stunt"

Sen. Cramer Statement on Biden’s Student Debt Cancelation Announcement  FARGO – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement after President Joe Biden announced the cancelation of up to $10,000 in federal student loan debt per borrower and up to $20,000 of debt for some borrowers who previously received a Pell grant.…
August 24, 2022

Helping Youth

MINOT – A state law that recently went into effect appears to be causing housing issues for youth in need of shelter. At an Elmer Jesme conference Tuesday inside the Ward County Administration Building, commissioners from several counties across North Dakota discussed how to deal with a new law that…
August 24, 2022
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Search Warrant in Term Limits Tussle

MINOT – A search warrant was executed this week at the home of Charles Tuttle, an advocate for the North Dakota Term Limits Committee and general watchdog over agencies and officials of state government. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation conducted the search of Tuttle’s Minot residence.  “They did a Mar-a-Lago…
August 18, 2022
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Burgum Seeks Red Tape Reduction

Burgum creates Red Tape Reduction Working Group to reduce burdens, lower costs of regulation   BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum has issued an executive order creating a Red Tape Reduction Working Group to bolster ongoing efforts to identify antiquated, unnecessary and burdensome regulations, rules and policies that could be changed…
August 18, 2022

Minot School Board Reacts to Fargo's No Pledge Decision 

MINOT – A few members of the Minot Public School Board expressed their disagreement with a Fargo School Board’s recent decision. After the Fargo School Board voted 7-2 to remove the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance before its board meetings, four of Minot’s five school board members had something…
August 17, 2022

Fargo Board to Reconsider Pledge Decision

By DAVE KOLPACK Associated Press FARGO, N.D. (AP) — The school board in North Dakota's largest city will reconsider its decision to stop reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at each of its meetings, after the move drew widespread criticism and threats of retaliation from some conservative state lawmakers.Fargo Board of…
August 17, 2022
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Marijuana Bound for Voters

BISMARCK —North Dakota Secretary of State Al Jaeger declared that a sufficient number of valid signatures were submitted to place a measure on the November 2022 ballot that would legalize cannabis.   More than 25,000 signatures in support of the legalization petition were submitted earlier this summer. Of those signatures, the…
August 16, 2022
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Term Limits Lawsuit Filed

Bismarck – The North Dakota Term Limits Committee has challenged the North Dakota Secretary of State, Alvin Jaeger’s disqualification of tens of thousands of valid signatures from residents seeking a statewide vote on term limits.  The lawsuit states that the number of signatures submitted was sufficient and in November North…
August 16, 2022
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Marijuana Makes Ballot

BISMARCK (AP) — Supporters of legalizing recreational marijuana in North Dakota have succeeded in bringing the matter to a public vote in November.  The group, New Approach North Dakota, submitted more than the required 15,582 valid petition signatures to get a measure on the November general election ballot, Secretary of…
August 15, 2022
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Opponents Respond to Becker Run

BISMARCK—Representative Rick Becker, R-District 7, has announced he intends to gather the 1,000 signatures necessary to have his name placed on the November 2022 ballot as an independent candidate. Dr. Becker will compete against Democrat Katrina Christiansen, and incumbent Republican John Hoeven.   At the NDGOP state convention in April, Becker…
August 15, 2022
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Becker Announces Senate Run

Bismarck -- Representative Rick Becker, R-District 7, Bismarck, has announced his intention to run as a conservative, small-government Republican candidate for U.S. Senate. He intends to gather the 1,000 signatures necessary to have his name placed on the November ballot as an Independent candidate. Dr. Becker will compete against Democrat…
August 15, 2022
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No More Pledge Causes Pushback

North Dakota district no longer reciting pledge at meetings By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press BISMARCK (AP) — The school board in North Dakota's largest city decided to stop reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at their meetings, prompting a Republican lawmaker to vow to push for a voucher program that would…
August 13, 2022
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Hoeven Statement on Obama-Era Policy

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today issued the following statement after a federal judge reinstated an Obama-era policy to suspend lease sales for coal on federal lands.           “The moratorium on federal coal leases threatens the availability of reliable…
August 12, 2022
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Ask Me Anything on Minot Budget

MINOT -- City Manager Harold Stewart is hosting a series of online Ask Me Anything meetings to answer questions and provide information about the proposed 2023 city budget. Two more meetings will be held on the City of Minot’s social media platforms and YouTube channel. The online meetings are scheduled…
August 11, 2022
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North Dakota Abortion Clinic Opens at New Minnesota Site

By the Associated Press MOORHEAD, Minn. (AP) — The operator of North Dakota's only abortion clinic said Wednesday the clinic has opened in its new location in Moorhead, just weeks before it's likely to be forced to close its Fargo location under a statewide abortion ban there.Red River Women's Clinic…
August 10, 2022

Ex-Miss America Mund: Abortion Ruling Prompted US House Run

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Former Miss America Cara Mund said Wednesday that her concern about the erosion of abortion rights prompted her independent bid for the U.S. House in her home state of North Dakota.Mund, who is running against the odds in deeply conservative North…
August 10, 2022
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N.D. Senators Statement on Oil and Gas Lawsuit

BISMARCK – U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven (R-ND) issued the following statements after the D.C. District Court approved North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley’s Motion to Intervene in environmentalist interest groups’ attempt to invalidate all June 2022 Bureau of Land Management oil and gas lease sales: Hoeven released this…
August 10, 2022
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Landowners seek $275K after ND Law Found not Constitutional

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A landowners group will seek more than $275,000 in lawyers' fees and other costs after North Dakota's Supreme Court found a state law pushed by the energy industry amounted to the unconstitutional taking of private property rights.In a ruling last week,…
August 9, 2022
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North Dakota Abortion Clinic Ramps Up Move to Minnesota

By DAVE KOLPACK Associated Press MOORHEAD, Minn. (AP) — The owner of a North Dakota abortion clinic that faces closure this month was directing traffic and deliveries Friday at its planned new location a few miles away in Minnesota.The Red River Women's Clinic, which has been operating on a busy…
August 8, 2022
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Profile: Lt. Governor's Wife

WATFORD CITY -- Sandra Sanford, the wife of Lieutenant Governor Brent Sanford, has been very politically involved herself in different conservative non-profit organizations. Her husband has also been involved in politics for many years as the mayor of Watford City, as his grandfather was.   “I don’t even like to use…
August 5, 2022

Legislative Family Spotlight

KILLDEER – Former Representative Kylie Oversen, D-Dis. 42, was in the legislature from 2013 to 2016, and became the youngest chair for the North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party in 2015. Her father, Gary Oversen, described what he felt when she decided to run for office.  “Of course, I will always…
July 29, 2022
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Process Questioned

MINOT – With the appointment of a new alderman to the Minot City Council came mixed feelings from others who ran, not because of the appointee himself, but about the process that was used to appoint him. After former legislator Roscoe Streyle was appointed to temporarily fill the vacant alderman…
July 28, 2022
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Cramer: Quit Gang Governing

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, penned an op-ed in The Hill on the importance of creating and passing legislation the way our Founding Fathers intended calling for an end of legislating by gang.  Here is the full context of Cramer’s letter:    Too many bills these days are…
July 26, 2022
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Elected Officials’ Families: Terry Jones’ Wife

NEW TOWN -- Rep. Terry Jones, R-Dis. 4, New Town, has been in the North Dakota legislature since 2017. His wife, Kelly Jones, described what she felt when he first decided to run.  “Terry has a tendency to stretch himself pretty thin,” said Jones, “And I was just worried that…
July 22, 2022

Election Defeat to Council Seat

MINOT - Contentious discussion filled the room at the Minot City Council meeting Monday as the council appointed Roscoe Streyle to temporarily fill the vacant alderman seat previously occupied by newly elected Mayor Tom Ross. The council voted four to two in favor of Roscoe Streyle, a banker at United…
July 19, 2022
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Elected Officials’ Families: Tim Mathern’s Daughter

FARGO — Senator Tim Mathern, D-Dis.11, has been in the North Dakota Senate since 1987. Reba Mathern-Jacobson, his daughter and mother of three from Fargo, described what she felt when she was in high school, and her father ran for a House seat and lost. “I remember, as a kid,…
July 15, 2022
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Elected Officials’ Families: Kevin Cramer’s Wife

NORTH DAKOTA – Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota has been politically active for many years, as his wife, Kris Cramer, described. He has been Chair of the North Dakota Republican Party from 1991 to 1993, a member of the North Dakota Public Service Commission from 2003 to 2012, a…
July 8, 2022
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Bill Gates and China Concerns

MINOT – Concerns were raised to North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring over billionaire Bill Gates and a China-based company buying farmland in North Dakota. At the Golden K Kiwanis Club meeting Wednesday, Clayton Guffey, president of the Minot Kiwanis Club and Richard Sabol, club member, raised concerns over Fufeng…
July 6, 2022

Government Questioned

MINOT — Much concern over spending and conflicts of interests were raised at both the Minot City Council and Ward County Commissioners meetings Tuesday and Wednesday. At the city council meeting Tuesday, Alderman Paul Pitner asked that the service agency Project BEE be removed from the community contributions for the…
July 6, 2022
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Elected Officials Families: Erin Oban’s Husband

BISMARCK — Former Senator and current Rural Development State director Erin Oban, D-Dis 35, was a Senator for four sessions since 2015. Her husband, Chad Oban, described his perspective, saying it was unique, since his own father also served in the legislature. “I was 8 years old the first time…
July 1, 2022
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New Mayor Sworn in, Council to Fill Vacancy

Minot — Mayor Tom Ross of Minot was sworn into office Tuesday, and the Minot City Council voted unanimously to temporarily fill his now vacant alderman seat at the July 18 council meeting. They also voted to add that position to the November ballot for the public to elect a…
June 29, 2022
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Automatic Recount Out in District 3

MINOT — Every vote cast in an election counts. When it comes to election recounts, even fractions count. That's what the Ward Counting Canvassing Board discovered Monday when they met to certify the results of the June 14 primary election. The closest race, and the one that has received a…
June 27, 2022
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Facts of Law: North Dakota After Roe - A Complicated Mess

On Friday, the United States Supreme Court issued its long-awaited decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning Roe v. Wade. The crux of the decision found no right to abortion contained within the various rights of the U.S. Constitution, effectively returning abortion regulation to the control of the…
June 25, 2022
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ND Senators, Governor React to Supreme Court Ruling

Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, statement on the United States Supreme Court decision in Dobbs Vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization: “The Supreme Court’s decision respects the sanctity of life and rightfully denies that the Constitution provided a right to abortion. The ruling is consistent with my work as Governor of North…
June 24, 2022
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Elected Officials’ Families: Oley Larsen’s Wife

MINOT — Former Senator Oley Larsen, R-Dis. 3, was in the North Dakota Senate from 2011 to 2021, before he stepped down. Liz Larsen, his wife, described what she thought when her husband decided to run. “I think the word would be ‘disbelief’ that he wanted to do it, and…
June 24, 2022
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Sen. Cramer on Gas Tax Suspension

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, released the following statement in response to President Biden’s forthcoming request to Congress to suspend the gas tax: “When gas is $5 a gallon, the American people aren’t asking for 18 cents of relief, they…
June 22, 2022
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North Dakota Senator Injured

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, has issued the following statement: “While working in the yard over the weekend, I sustained a serious injury to my right hand, which required immediate surgery. I continue to remain in North Dakota, close to medical care, as there is a high risk…
June 22, 2022
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Ballot Battle Ahead

MINOT — It will be the most closely watched board meeting ever held at the new County building. And with good reason. In the recent June 14 election unofficial voting results for the Republican representative ticket in District 3 showed incumbent Jeff Hoverson leading challenger Roscoe Streyle by a single…
June 22, 2022
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Road Changes for City and County

MINOT — Minot City Council approved the 16th Street NW and 30 Avenue NW intersection to change from a four way stop to a two way stop, with the 16th Street stop signs being removed. During the meeting Monday, Alderman Stephan Podrygula said he had received concerns about this issue…
June 21, 2022
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Minot's Changing Council

MINOT — A new mayor is about to move from one seat to another, leaving a vacancy on Minot’s City Council. Alderman Tom Ross emerged the winner in a three-way race for mayor in the recent election, garnering 1,978 votes. Fellow challenger Miranda Schuler finished second with 1,357 votes, and…
June 18, 2022
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Congress Passes Legislation to Address Shipping Backlogs

Senator Hoeven Advanced Legislation to Help North Dakota Exporters, Including Ag & Energy Producers, to Access Foreign Markets WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed legislation he sponsored to update federal regulations for the global shipping industry and help American…
June 15, 2022
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Burgum Accepts Leiman’s Resignation from Commerce Commissioner Role, Appoints Kessel as Interim

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today announced that North Dakota Commerce Commissioner James Leiman has resigned from the position effective June 30 but will continue working for Commerce on a part-time basis to drive economic development projects in the state. Burgum has appointed Deputy Commerce Commissioner Shawn Kessel to serve…
June 15, 2022
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NDHP, Spirit Lake Tribe Sign Mutual Aid Agreement

BISMARCK — The Spirit Lake Tribe and the North Dakota Highway Patrol signed a mutual aid agreement on Tuesday, June 14. This agreement will enhance law enforcement in the areas of emergency calls, requests for mutual aid and other law enforcement functions on the Spirit Lake Reservation. The agreement does…
June 15, 2022
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Minot Election Results

MINOT — The biggest upset of the night was Alderman Tom Ross beating out his opponents Miranda Schuler and Incumbent Shaun Sipma to be the next mayor of Minot. "Now the work begins. We've got exciting times ahead of us. We're going to get people engaged," Ross said. Minot's City…
June 15, 2022
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Tom Ross Projected to be New Mayor

MINOT — The City of Minot has a new mayor. The Secretary of State's website is showing Tom Ross has the lead over Miranda Schuler and Incumbent Shaun Sipma. Kim Fundingsland has Ross' initial reaction on being named the new mayor of Minot.
June 14, 2022
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Primary Election Underway

MINOT — Poll workers are saying this year's Primary Election is taking in a steady number of voters. Bonnie Domsteen, inspector for the North Dakota State Fair Center polls, said that nothing seems to be different this year as opposed to any other year since 2016, when she first started…
June 14, 2022
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Governor, First Lady to Host Sixth Annual Recovery Reinvented on Nov. 10 in Grand Forks

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Burgum are inviting the public to join them for Recovery Reinvented, an event dedicated to eliminating the shame and stigma of the disease of addiction, on Nov. 10, 2022, at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. The event will be free…
June 14, 2022
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Banking Republicans Call on HUD to Immediately Reinstate Work Requirement Study for Taxpayer-Funded Housing

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined his Senate Banking Committee Republican colleagues in calling on Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia Fudge to immediately reverse HUD’s decision to abruptly end a study on the incentives of work requirements for individuals given taxpayer-funded housing. In 1996, Congress…
June 14, 2022
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Military Families Mental Health Services Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) introduced the bipartisan Military Families Mental Health Services Act to help military families access vital mental health care services. The bipartisan bill waives out-of-pocket costs for military families and veterans on…
June 14, 2022
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County Approves Property Funds for Youthworks

MINOT — Ward County Commissioners approved using the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to allow the short-term care and assessment center Youthworks to buy property for its youth to live in. On Monday, Emily Yanish, program manager for Youthworks, told the commissioners that the center has two plans of…
June 13, 2022
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Burgum highlights progress, outlines challenges in fourth conference on state-tribal partnerships

Emergency response agreement with Spirit Lake to be signed Tuesday BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today welcomed tribal members and other attendees to the fourth Strengthening Government to Government Partnerships and Relationships Conference, highlighting progress made through collaboration between the state and North Dakota’s tribal nations over the last two…
June 13, 2022

Many Candidates Vying for Fargo City Positions

FARGO — Fargo’s city elections of 2022 are likely to be memorable. First of all, there are seven people, including the incumbent mayor vying for that title and 15 people competing for two city commission seats, including one incumbent. So, there will be at least one change for sure in…
June 8, 2022
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Cramer Announces Mobile Office Hours in Stanley, Powers Lake, Tioga

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced today members of his staff will hold mobile office hours in Stanley, Powers Lake, and Tioga on Thursday, June 16. “Since it’s not always possible for people to travel to my in-state offices, these mobile office opportunities help bring the services…
June 8, 2022
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Hoeven Cosponsors Iran China Accountability Act

Legislation Would Prevent Taxpayer Dollars from Advancing Iran Nuclear Agreement WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, today cosponsored the Iran China Accountability Act, legislation introduced by Senator Marsha Blackburn that would prohibit taxpayer dollars from advancing a nuclear agreement with Iran while the regime has ties with Communist China…
June 8, 2022
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Heated Dispute at City Council

MINOT — Discussion at the Minot City Council became tense as motions were made relating to changing the bylaws for Visit Minot on Monday. The change would allow for 8 out of the 9 Visit Minot board members being elected by the board, as opposed to the previous process in…
June 7, 2022
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DNC Funds New North Dakota Democratic-NPL Organizing Director

BISMARCK — The North Dakota Democratic-NPL announced Tuesday that the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has granted the state party’s request to fund a new organizing director to focus on early and robust voter engagement. The organizing director will be tasked with getting an early lead on volunteer recruitment, directing community…
June 7, 2022
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ND Leadership Breaks Ground on New Soybean Crushing Plant

JAMESTOWN — Gov. Doug Burgum, R-ND, Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, an Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, joined officials from ADM and Marathon Petroleum Corp. (MPC) at the Spiritwood Energy Park to help break ground Thursday on the Green Bison Soy Processing plant, North Dakota’s first dedicated soybean processing plant, highlighting the…
June 3, 2022
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Indian Health Service Awards $57.7 Million to ND Tribes from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, announced the Indian Health Service (IHS) awarded $57,715,390 from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to North Dakota tribes to improve water and sanitation systems. “Tribes know best what their communities need and…
June 2, 2022
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Iran China Accountability Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in introducing the Iran China Accountability Act. This legislation calls attention to Iran’s ties with Communist China by prohibiting the obligation or expenditure of any taxpayer dollars to advance a…
June 2, 2022
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Hoeven Announces $6.7 Million in Funding to Support Increased Rail Performance in North Dakota

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $6.7 million to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) to replace 14.5 miles of aging rail on the Red River…
June 2, 2022
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Is the Dual Nomination Process Good for North Dakota?

Those who attend party conventions to endorse candidates often believe that they are helping the party decide who will run under the party's banner. Theoretically, candidates endorsed by the party receive support from the party, including access to the RNC Data Center, the party’s nonprofit mailing rates for postage, as…
May 27, 2022
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Legislators Raise Concerns Over Governor's Campaign Contributions

BISMARCK — A handful of state legislators held a press conference inside the state capitol building in Bismarck Thursday to voice their concerns about Governor Doug Burgum’s campaign contributions, calling it a possible violation of the North Dakota Constitution. These legislators pointed to the governor's level of financial contributions to…
May 27, 2022
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Fatal Motorcycle Crash

STERLING — The North Dakota Highway Patrol says a man died Wednesday evening after losing control of his motorcycle. According to the NDHP, James Michael Lang, 71, was traveling on Highway 10 about a mile and a half west of Sterling when he lost control and crashed around 8:30 p.m.…
May 26, 2022
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ND Delegation Leads Effort to Address Impact of Excess Moisture, Help Ensure Affordable Food Supply

WASHINGTON, D.C. — North Dakotan's Congressional Delegation of Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Representative Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.), along with Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) this week led a bipartisan, bicameral effort urging U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to provide support and certainty to producers facing…
May 26, 2022
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Hoeven Helps Secure $136.5 Million for Pipestem Dam Project

Work Plan Also Advances Utility Project in Wilton, Recreation Improvements around Lake Sakakawea WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, today announced that he helped secure important North Dakota priorities in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 work plan, including $136.5 million to complete the Pipestem…
May 26, 2022
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County Prioritizes ARPA Funds

MINOT — Ward County Commissioners sifted through several applications from projects outside of Ward County for funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) on Tuesday. Though the funds in ARPA barely exceed $8.5 million, the amount that the applicants requested added up to roughly $31 million. The commissioners voted…
May 24, 2022
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Full House at Movie on Alleged Election Fraud

MINOT — More than 200 people showed up to watch a documentary about possible election fraud at Oak Park Theater Monday night. The movie, 2000 Mules by Dinesh D’Souza, reviewed possible illegal ballot harvesting that may have impacted the outcome of the 2020 U.S. Presidential race as well as the…
May 24, 2022
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Burgum, GOP Party Leaders Weigh in on Races

North Dakota has had a significant population increase in the last 10 years, leading to the 2021 legislature drawing new boundaries for legislative districts. This redistricting created a sort of musical chairs as several legislators found themselves residing in a new district or saw significant changes to their old district…
May 23, 2022
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Ward County Commissioners Clarify TIF Participation

MINOT — Ward County commissioners clarified a motion regarding their participation in the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for the Big M building downtown in a special commission meeting Friday afternoon. Commissioner Howard “Bucky” Anderson made a motion at the regular commission meeting earlier in the week to grant EPIC an…
May 20, 2022
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Senator Reviews Details of Phase One Row Crop Disaster Assistance with Local Producers

FARGO — Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable discussion with local agriculture producers and commodity groups to review the details for phase one of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP). The program is funded using the $9.25 billion in row crop disaster assistance that Hoeven secured in September. Hoeven was…
May 20, 2022
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Congress Passes Legislation to Help Address Baby Formula Shortage

Bill in the Senate to Provide Flexibility in WIC, Help Prevent Future Shortages WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Access to Baby…
May 19, 2022
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Senators Introduce, Pass Resolution Honoring National Police Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Hoeven (R-ND) joined Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and 82 colleagues in introducing a resolution marking National Police Week and reiterating support for the men and women in law enforcement. It was unanimously adopted by the U.S. Senate last…
May 19, 2022
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Senators Demanding FDA Explanation on Failures that Caused Baby Formula Shortages

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) in demanding answers from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding its inadequate investigation into Abbott Nutrition’s Michigan manufacturing facility and failure to mitigate the nationwide baby formula shortage. The senators…
May 19, 2022
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Senators Introduce Access to Baby Formula Act

Senator Pressing FDA to Take Action to Increase Access to Formula, Answer for Current Shortage   WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) joined Agriculture Committee Chair Senator Debbie Stabenow and Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Senator John Boozman in introducing the Access to Baby Formula Act, legislation to help address the…
May 19, 2022
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Hoeven Secures Commitment from Space Force Leadership to Continue Advancing Satellite Mission at GFAFB

SDA, LEO Mission to Become Part of Space Force in October WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, this week secured a commitment from U.S. Space Force Chief John Raymond to continue advancing the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Space Networking Center at…
May 18, 2022
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Senators Urge Biden Administration to Support Taiwan's Inclusion in IPEF

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) today joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in urging the Biden administration to support Taiwan’s inclusion as a partner in the proposed Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF).…
May 18, 2022
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Minot Air Force Base Helicopter Replacement, Nuclear Modernization Programs on Track

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, confirmed with Air Force leaders that modernization efforts are on track for nuclear forces based at the Minot Air Force Base. Hoeven outlined the importance of modernization efforts in ensuring the U.S.…
May 18, 2022
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Several Vacancies on Local Ballots

It takes a special kind of person to run for office. Running for office requires an interest in and understanding of local government, time to fill the position and the will to deal with the hassle of the campaign process. It's definitely not for everyone. That's why it's not unusual…
May 17, 2022
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Crop Disaster Assistance Signup to Begin in Late May, Assistance to Start in June

USDA to Begin Sending Pre-Filled Applications Based on Existing Crop Insurance Data to Producers WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that signup will begin in May for the $9.25 billion in…
May 16, 2022
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$10.9 Million to Construct Medical Facilities in Towner County

BISMARCK — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development approved a loan guarantee of $10,894,000 to Towner County Hospital Authority (TCHA). The funds will be used to construct a 76,000 square foot critical access hospital and nursing home for TCHA in Cando. The…
May 13, 2022
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Burgum Congratulates Bismarck on Sesquicentennial, Directs Capitol Lights to Mark 150-year History of City

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today congratulated the City of Bismarck on its 150-year history and directed the lights of the Capitol to display the number 150 tonight to mark the capital city’s sesquicentennial year, which officially begins Saturday, May 14. “As we join together today and throughout the coming year…
May 13, 2022
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Cramer Discusses Shipyard Infrastructure, Workforce Challenges at Joint Seapower Readiness Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Seapower Subcommittee, discussed Navy authorities, workforce development, and funding issues related to the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program at a joint Seapower and Readiness and Management Support Subcommittee hearing. Senator Cramer began by asking for recommendations…
May 11, 2022
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Hoeven Continues Efforts to Ensure Livestock Indemnity Program Works for Ranchers, Get Disaster Assistance Out to Crop Producers

Disaster Aid Details Expected Later This Month, Payments to be Distributed in June WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee he co-chaired this week, Ranking Member Senator John Hoeven again urged U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to: Ensure the Livestock Indemnity Program…
May 11, 2022
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Park District Board Candidates

MINOT — The Minot Park District has five candidates running for three positions. The three incumbents whose terms are up, Perry Olson, Mike Schmitt, and Charles Emery are running again. Olson grew up in Minot, graduated from Minot State University, previously worked for KXMC-TV, and currently works for First International…
May 11, 2022
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Burgum Proclaims May 11-17 Police Week in North Dakota, Directs Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff Thursday for Peace Officers Memorial Day

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum has issued a proclamation declaring May 11-17 as Police Week in North Dakota and Thursday, May 12, as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The governor has directed government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Thursday, and encourages North Dakotans…
May 10, 2022
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Burgum Waives Hours of Service for Commercial Drivers Hauling Agricultural Inputs Due to Shortened Spring Planting Season

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today signed an executive order granting a waiver of hours of service requirements for drivers of commercial motor vehicles transporting all agricultural inputs, including dry fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, anhydrous ammonia, pesticides and seed, to assist producers in North Dakota who are facing a delayed spring and…
May 10, 2022
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District 28 Republicans Announce Joint Campaign

GWINNER — District 28 Republicans have announced their joint campaign; Sebastian Ertelt for State Senate and Josh Loegering and Darcy Meier for State House. 
Josh Loegering and his wife Christine homeschool their six children and farm on Christine’s family homestead. Loegering is active in his community and serves as the…
May 9, 2022
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Zachmeier Announces Candidacy for District 33 House

MANDAN — Andy Zachmeier from Mandan has announced he is a candidate for District 33 North Dakota House of Representatives. District 33 covers Mercer County, Oliver County and parts of Morton County and McLean County. Zachmeier has served for 16 years on the Morton County Commission where he is currently…
May 9, 2022
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Senator Advances Nuclear Modernization, Sky Range Program

Senator also discusses status of Military Aid to Ukraine, support needed to repel Russia’s Invasion WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven advanced the following North Dakota defense priorities critical to the security of the U.S. and its allies with…
May 5, 2022
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Hoeven Presses Ag Secretary to Ensure LIP Reflects Market Rates, Send Disaster Assistance

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven this week pressed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to: Ensure the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) national payment rates reflect actual market rates and covers losses due to eligible diseases. This follows a roundtable discussion that Hoeven held with North Dakota livestock…
May 5, 2022

Burgum Presents Strategic Budget Guidelines for 2023-2025 Biennium

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum presented his strategic budget guidelines for the 2023-2025 biennium, highlighting the need for continued innovation, cost containment and efficiencies in state government as well as additional investment in employee compensation to address a highly competitive workforce environment and the highest inflation in more than 40…
May 5, 2022
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District 9 Republicans Endorse Candidates

ROLLA — District 9 Republicans announced today they have endorsed Kent Weston for State Senate and Donna Henderson and Brenda Malo for State House. All three candidates were endorsed at the district convention held on April 6 and are officially launching a joint primary campaign for the June 14 election.…
May 5, 2022
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District 39 Conservative Republicans Announce Candidacy

DICKINSON — District 39 Conservative Republicans have announced their candidacy; Andrew Kordonowy for State Senate and Thea Lee and Rep. Mike Schatz for State House. Andrew Kordonowy was raised in rural Billings County, educated in Fryburg, Belfield, Dickinson State University, and the U.S. Army.  He served 5 years active duty…
May 5, 2022
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Food Supply Chain Affecting Inmates

County Approves Increase in Food Budget for the Jail MINOT — Ward County Commissioners approved an increase for the county's jail food services on Tuesday, as the supply chain has affected prices. Major Paul Olthoff, from the Ward County Detention Center, explained how the jail’s contract with Summit Food Service…
May 3, 2022
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Much Debate at City Council Meeting

MINOT — Much discussion and some disagreement was had at the lengthy Minot City Council meeting on Monday.  City council members and county commissioner had a long discussion on the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) that EPIC requested for the Big M building. However, nothing changed on the matter.  City council then…
May 3, 2022
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Cramer Discusses Grand Forks Air Force Base, Cavalier Radar Modernization at SASC Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) discussed the future and importance of Grand Forks Air Force Base and Cavalier Space Force Station at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the posture of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. Senator Cramer began by expressing gratitude to…
May 3, 2022
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New Sheriff Coming to Town

Candidates for Bottineau County Sheriff have big shoes to fill For the first time in 24 years, there will be a new sheriff in town. In Bottineau County that is. Sheriff Steve Watson, who was first elected in 1998, is retiring at the end of this year. This November’s election will determine who…
May 2, 2022
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North Dakota's Leadership in CCUS Central to Future of Coal Creek, Nation's Energy Security

Senator marks final purchase of Coal Creek by Rainbow Energy, Outlines nearly 15 years of effort to crack the code on CCUS UNDERWOOD — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today marked the final sale of Coal Creek Station to Rainbow Energy. Hoeven…
May 2, 2022
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Senators Help Introduce Resolution to Repeal Biden Administration's Policy to Upend Asylum Process

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer recently joined Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Joint Resolution of Disapproval to dissolve a proposed Biden administration rule that would upend the process by which the U.S. government grants asylum claims. Under current law, asylum…
May 2, 2022
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Reviews Storm Damage to Livestock Producers & Rural Communities, Working to Get Assistance for Downed Power Lines

MAX — U.S. Senator John Hoeven reviewed the impacts of recent severe weather on North Dakota’s livestock producers, communities and rural utilities yesterday. The senator visited a family-owned ranch near Max to learn firsthand about the damages and met with ranchers, local leaders and a representative from McLean Electric Cooperative…
April 30, 2022
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Candidate Challenging Hoeven

DICKINSON — Riley Kuntz, an oil rig worker from Dickinson, has announced he is running on the Republican ticket for U.S. Senate against incumbent and endorsed Republican party candidate Sen. John Hoeven. Kuntz said he has turned in enough signatures to be on the June 14 primary ballot. “I think…
April 29, 2022
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Burgum Waives Hours of Service for Carriers, Contractors and Rural Electric Cooperative Workers to Assist with the Restoration of Power

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today signed an executive order granting a waiver of hours of service requirements can ensure carriers, contractors and rural electric cooperative workers to enter North Dakota to assist with the restoration of power to the affected areas in the state. Utility workers have been working to…
April 29, 2022
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Hoeven Urging Army Corps to Address Boat Ramp Maintenance at Lake Sakakawea, Lake Oahe

Senator Discusses Efforts to Improve Lake Access with Omaha District Commander WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, this week met with Col. Mark Himes, Commander of the Army Corps’ Omaha District, to advance repair efforts for boat ramps and…
April 29, 2022
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Cramer Urges USDA to Provide Relief for Livestock Producers, Increase Calf Payment Rate

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) wrote a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA), urging FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux to provide accurate relief to eligible livestock owners for deaths under the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) following recent winter storms in North Dakota.…
April 29, 2022
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Burgum Appoints Interim U.S. Attorney Nick Chase to East Central Judicial District Judgeship

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum has appointed Interim U.S. Attorney Nick Chase of Fargo to a judgeship in the East Central Judicial District. Chase has served in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota since 2002. As an assistant U.S. attorney, he led the office’s Appellate, White…
April 28, 2022
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Hoeven, Heinrich Introduce Chronic Wasting Disease Research and Management Act

Bipartisan Legislation Would Empower State & Tribal Governments to Address & Prevent CWD Outbreaks WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) this week introduced bipartisan legislation to support both the research and management of chronic wasting disease (CWD). The bill would authorize $70 million per year,…
April 28, 2022
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Nuclear Regulatory Commission Awards $131K Scholarship Grant to Bismarck State College

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) awarded $131,163 to Bismarck State College (BSC). This funding will provide scholarships for students enrolled in the BSC Nuclear Power Technology and the Instrumentation and Control Technology Programs.
April 28, 2022
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Raknerud Announces Candidacy for the Minot City Council

MINOT — Zach Raknerud announced his candidacy to become a member of the Minot City Council. Raknerud has lived in Minot since 2016. He grew up in Northwood, North Dakota. In 2016, he graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. He lives in…
April 28, 2022
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Hoeven Working to Advance Cattle Contract Library Implementation, Improve Price Transparency, Market Competition

Senator introduces ND Rancher Shelly Ziesch at Senate Agriculture Committee Hearing WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee this week, U.S. Senator John Hoeven urged Bruce Summers, Administrator of the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), to implement the cattle contract library pilot program as soon as possible,…
April 27, 2022
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Hoeven Continues Working to Keep Title 42 in Place, Secure Border

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Committee, today joined a press conference to outline the growing challenges facing Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials and North Dakota National Guard members that are currently deployed to the southern border. Last week, Hoeven visited…
April 27, 2022
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Burgum Urges U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Restore Pre-Pandemic Hours at Border Crossings

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum is urging U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to restore pre-pandemic hours of operation at several ports of entry where hours were reduced in April 2020. In a letter to CBP Commissioner Chris Magnus and U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Burgum noted that of…
April 26, 2022
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Burgum Declares Statewide Emergency for Flooding, Infrastructure Damage Caused by Weekend Storms; Disaster Declared for April 12-14 Historic Blizzard

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today declared a statewide emergency for flooding and widespread utility infrastructure damage caused by a severe winter storm last weekend that has left thousands of North Dakotans without electricity. The governor also has declared a disaster for areas impacted by record snowfall during the historic…
April 25, 2022
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Darrik Trudell Withdraws Name from Minot City Council Alderman Race

MINOT — Darrik Trudell has withdrawn as a candidate for Minot’s City Council.  Prior to announcing his candidacy, Trudell sought and received the necessary approval from his employer’s Ethics Division.  However, upon further review, the Ethics Division has withdrew that approval due to a potential conflict of interest with his…
April 25, 2022
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Longtin Announces Candidacy for Minot Park Board

MINOT — Logan Longtin officially announced his candidacy for one of the three seats on the Minot Park Board up for election on June 14. Longtin said that his inspiration for running stems from his belief that a community’s parks and public spaces reflect the health and vitality of that…
April 25, 2022
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Hoeven Marks Completion of New MAFB Firing Range, Secured $27M for Safe Indoor Training Space

MINOT — At a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, Senator John Hoeven helped mark the completion of a new indoor firing range at the Minot Air Force Base. As a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured $27 million for the range to provide a safe,…
April 22, 2022
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Term Limits Tussle

BISMARCK — The North Dakota Term Limits committee submitted petitions with more than 46,000 signatures to get an initiated measure placed on a statewide ballot. The Secretary of State tossed out 29,000 of them, setting the stage for legal wrangling. 31,000 signatures were required to place the term limits issue…
April 22, 2022
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Race is on for Minot Public School Board

MINOT — Minot Public Schools have three candidates running for two positions. The terms for board members, Laura Mihalick and Miranda Schuler, are up, but neither will be running again. The three candidates running for those positions are Sabrina Herrmann, Andrew Dittus, and Mitch Kraft. Herrmann, who has a Bachelor's…
April 22, 2022
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USDA Awards $2.8M to Improve North Dakota’s Water Infrastructure

BISMARCK — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development awarded the following funding to improve North Dakota’s water infrastructure: $2,800,000 loan to the City of Richardson to complete a city-wide street and storm sewer improvement. The project will consist of milling, patching, and…
April 21, 2022
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FAA Awards $405k to UND for UAS Research

BISMARCK — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded two Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) research grants totaling $405,042 to the University of North Dakota. $325,042 to Evaluate UAS Electromagnetic Compatibility. This research will assess the risks, identify drone design…
April 21, 2022
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City Hears Presentation on Anne Street Bridge

MINOT — The Minot City Council heard a presentation about the possible reconstruction of Anne Street Bridge on Monday. Lance Meyer, city engineer, said if the project is approved, the bridge would probably be completely redone and is projected to cost $5.4 million. “We could probably try to find a…
April 20, 2022
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Council Approves Emergency Declaration for Snowstorm

MINOT — The Minot City Council approved an emergency declaration following the snowstorm this past week. The vote was unanimous. This is just one of the steps in the process to qualify for federal reimbursement. However, it does free up the city's emergency funds to help pay down some of…
April 18, 2022
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Minot City Council Candidates

MINOT — The Minot City Council has five candidates running for three positions, as well as three candidates running for the mayoral position. The three incumbents for city council, Mark Jantzer, Lisa Olson, and Paul Pitner, are all running for re-election. Jantzer, who was first elected for city council in…
April 15, 2022
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Ward County Commission Candidates

MINOT — The Ward County Commission has four people running for two open positions. One incumbent whose term is up, Commissioner John Fjeldahl, is seeking re-election. The other incumbent whose term is up, Commissioner John Pietsch, is not. Fjeldahl, who graduated from Berthold and went to NDSU for a year,…
April 15, 2022
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$800k in Medical Research Funding Awarded to UND, NDSU

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced today the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded two grants to the University of North Dakota (UND) and North Dakota State University (NDSU) for medical research totaling to $814,567. UND was awarded $382,717 for allergy, immunology and transplantation…
April 11, 2022
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Jeffrey Powell Announces Candidacy for ND Secretary of State

Powell running on Democratic-NPL ticket Grand Forks — Jeffrey Powell of Grand Forks has petitioned the North Dakota Democratic-NPL to endorse him as a candidate for the office of Secretary of State. Powell said, “I am running for Secretary of State, because I want to continue serving the people of North…
April 11, 2022
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VanWinkle Announces Candidacy for District 3 House

MINOT — Lori VanWinkle is one of two endorsed Republican candidates running for the House of Representatives in District 3, along with Representative Jeff Hoverson. Currently VanWinkle serves on the District 3 Executive Committee. She is an active participant in the grassroots movement in North Dakota, aiming to preserve Republican…
April 11, 2022
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Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act to ensure Medicare patients have full coverage of chiropractic care. As medical professionals have reported seeing more neck and back pain in their patients over…
April 8, 2022
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Congress Passes Legislation to Enhance Shadow Wolves, Expand Operation to Northern Border

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the House companion to the Shadow Wolves Enhancement Act, legislation introduced in the Senate by Hoeven and Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.). This bipartisan, bicameral legislation classifies the Tohono O’odham Shadow Wolves unit as special agents,…
April 8, 2022
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Senators Help Introduce Legislation to Extend Title 42 Until 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer joined Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) in introducing legislation to extend the Title 42 authority at the nation’s southern border until February 2025. At present, the Title 42 Public Health Order allows Homeland Security and immigration officials to expeditiously return illegal immigrants…
April 7, 2022
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District 23 Republicans Endorse Candidates

WILLISTON — District 23 Republicans have announced endorsements for Todd Beard for State Senate and Scott Dyk and Nico Rios for State House. All three candidates were endorsed via a unanimous vote by local party members at the district convention held on April 5 at the NDSU Extension Center. Todd…
April 6, 2022
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District 3 Republican Candidates Endorsed

MINOT — Members of the District 3 Republican Party endorsed three candidates for the state legislature on Monday night. With former Senator Oley Larsen having stepped down, Bob Paulson, previously a representative, was unanimously endorsed with a voice vote for the Senate seat. For the two House of Representatives seats,…
April 5, 2022
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EPIC Requests TIF from City and County

MINOT — EPIC Companies testified at both the Minot City Council and Ward County Commission meetings Monday and Tuesday, asking both the city and county, along with the school and park districts, to approve Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for its renovation of the Midwest Federal building (also known as the…
April 5, 2022
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County Approves New Snowplow and Mower Roadmap

MINOT — The Ward County Commissioners approved new technology for a snowplow and mower map. Dana Larsen, the highway engineer, described the map as a public showing of where the highway department has mowed and plowed and how long ago it happened. “During bad winters, we get a lot of…
April 5, 2022
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Statement on Supreme Court Confirmation Vote for Judge Jackson

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement regarding the upcoming vote on Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, President Biden’s nominee to serve as an Associate Justice to the United States Supreme Court: “I take my constitutional duty to provide advice and consent on appointments made by the president…
April 4, 2022
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Landowner Easement Rights Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, introduced the Landowner Easement Rights Act with Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD). This bill will prohibit the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) from entering into a conservation easement with a term of more than 50 years. It…
April 4, 2022
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Record Breaking NDGOP Convention

BISMARCK — This weekend's Republican State Convention was the largest GOP convention in state history. After a long delay in counting the credentials, the report stated 2321 delegates were in attendance on Saturday. That was only the beginning of such delays. Perrie Schafer and Gary Emineth were both nominated for…
April 3, 2022
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Chairman Survives Challenge

Contentious Moments at Republican Convention BISMARCK — A challenge to Republican party chairman Perrie Schafer came close to succeeding, but in the end the Bismarck man kept his position at the podium. As chairman of the state GOP, Schafer entered the convention hall at the Bismarck Event Center also as…
April 3, 2022
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Hoeven Accepts Endorsement

BISMARCK — The rhetoric became contentious at times, but in the end, it was a Senator John Hoeven day at the North Dakota Republican convention in Bismarck. Hoeven, who collected 1,224 delegate votes to Rick Becker’s 1,037, took the stage at 5:00 p.m. and thanked the delegates for their support.…
April 2, 2022
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Republicans Vote to Endorse Hoeven

BISMARCK — Delegates at the North Dakota Republican State Convention have chosen to endorse Senator John Hoeven for the U.S. Senate. The vote was 1,224 for Sen. Hoeven and 1,037 for Rick Becker.
April 2, 2022
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Governor & First Lady Host Governor's Dinner

BISMARCK — “There has never been a better chance for North Dakota to lead this country. Blessed with communities, with soil, everything between, and energy resources make it imperative to think about the advantages we have in North Dakota,” Governor Burgum said. A sold-out crowd of 375 people attended the…
April 2, 2022
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Ready to Retire: “I’ve Accomplished What I Set Out To Do”

BISMARCK — It was 2010 when Oley Larsen, by his own admission a neophyte to the legislative process, threw his hat into the ring to run for 3rd District Senate against a strong incumbent “that I wasn’t supposed to beat.” Now 10 years later, with the nominating convention for District…
April 1, 2022
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Burgum Statement on Biden Administration’s Plan to Release 180M Barrels from Strategic Petroleum Reserve

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum released the following statement today after President Joe Biden announced plans to release more than 180 million barrels of oil from the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve over the next six months. “Once again, President Biden is relying on the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and foreign nations…
March 31, 2022
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Senate Passes Ocean Shipping Reform Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, legislation which will update federal regulations for the global shipping industry and help American producers export their products internationally. As one of the four lead sponsors of the bipartisan legislation,…
March 31, 2022
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Senators React to Biden Administration's Planned Release from Strategic Petroleum Reserve

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer today issued the following statements after President Biden announced a plan to release oil from the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve. “The Biden administration has been taking the wrong approach to energy development. In an energy rich nation like ours, consumers should…
March 31, 2022
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$51.5 Million in New Funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for North Dakota Water Resources Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, announced today the Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) will allocate North Dakota $51,550,000 in funding from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Through his seat on…
March 31, 2022
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Livestock Disaster Assistance Payments to Producers Start Next Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin sending livestock disaster assistance payments next week. USDA today released details on phase one of the Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP), which is funded from the $750 million that Hoeven secured in September…
March 31, 2022
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Former Police Chief Running for Ward County Commission

MINOT — Jason Olson, of Minot, announced he is running for Ward County Commission. In a statement released today, Olson said he brings his experience in serving the public, hisconservative values, and belief that government has an important but preferably limited role toplay in citizens lives. Olson retired in 2020,…
March 31, 2022
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Holle Announces Run for House Seat in District 31

ST. ANTHONY — Dawson Holle announced his candidacy as a Republican for the State House in District 31. He has gathered signatures and was approved for the June primary election ballot on June 14th. “The 2016 Presidential election ignited a spark for me to get involved in politics,” said Holle.…
March 31, 2022
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Hoeven: Biden Administration Needs to Enforce the Law, Secure the Southern Border

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a press conference with his Senate Republican colleagues today, Senator John Hoeven called on the Biden administration to enforce the law and secure the nation’s borders. The senator outlined the ongoing illegal immigration crisis at the southern border and highlighted three key policies that the administration…
March 30, 2022
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Senators Asking White House for Update, Clarity on U.S. Lethal Aid Provided to Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) in urging the Biden administration’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan to clarify the speed, specifics and supply of lethal aid the United States is providing to Ukraine. In the letter, the…
March 29, 2022
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Senators Urge Secretary Blinken to End the UNHRC's Commission of Inquiry on the Israeli Palestinian Conflict

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer joined Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.), in urging Secretary of State Antony Blinken to prioritize reversing the UN Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) discriminatory and unwarranted treatment of Israel by leading a multinational effort to end the permanent Commission…
March 29, 2022
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Hoeven Presses DHS for Plan to Secure Southern Border Should Administration Revoke Title 42

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven joined Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) in pressing Department of Homeland (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to release information regarding the department’s plan to secure the U.S. southern border should the Biden administration rescind Title 42, the policy that allows U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)…
March 28, 2022
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Senators Introduce Resolution Supporting Unified Diplomatic Mission in Israel

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) helped introduce a concurrent resolution, led by Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), reaffirming Congress’s position that the United States should be represented by a single diplomatic mission in Jerusalem. The Biden administration has previously stated its intent to create a…
March 28, 2022
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Hoeven on President's FY2023 Budget Request

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after President Biden released his $5.8 trillion budget for Fiscal Year 2023: “The Biden administration is taking our nation in the wrong direction, with inflation at a 40-year high and individuals and families facing increased costs for food and energy.…
March 28, 2022
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Tracy Potter Appointed to Serve in ND Senate

BISMARCK — Former state Senator Tracy Potter says he’s “ready to serve” in the North Dakota Senate following his appointment by the District 35 Democratic-NPL district committee to fill the Senate vacancy created by the resignation of Senator Erin Oban, D-Dis. 35, Bismarck. Potter will fill out Oban’s term and…
March 28, 2022
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Lepp Announces Candidacy for ND Secretary of State

BISMARCK — Marvin Lepp of Bismarck announced he is running for Secretary of State of North Dakota.  Lepp is originally from Lehr and grew up outside of Bismarck. In a statement, he said, "Over the years since I left the ranch, I have worked in multiple industries. Employed by both…
March 28, 2022
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Democratic-NPL has its Candidates

MINOT — The North Dakota Democratic-NPL has chosen its candidates. The state convention wrapped on Saturday in Minot. 19 candidates were announced for the North Dakota State Legislature. The Dem-NPL senators and endorsed senate candidates were announced by Senate Minority Leader Joan Heckaman, D-Dis. 23, and the Dem-NPL Representatives and…
March 27, 2022
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Democratic-NPL State Convention Concludes

MINOT — More candidates were chosen at the Democratic-NPL State Convention in Minot on Saturday. The day started with speeches from Minority Leaders Sen. Joan Heckaman, D-Dis. 2, New Rockford, and Rep. Josh Boschee, D-Dis. 44, Fargo on the Democratic nominees for the North Dakota State Legislature. The nomination for…
March 26, 2022
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The North Dakota Democratic-NPL State Convention

MINOT — The Democratic-NPL State Convention is being held in Minot. Delegates nominated two candidates on Friday afternoon, one for PSC and one for AG Commissioner. Melanie Moniz, from District 4A, was nominated unanimously for PSC. In her nomination speech, she stated that she would take care of the health…
March 25, 2022
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Senator Pressing FERC to Provide Certainty to Natural Gas Projects, Help Lower Costs for Consumers & Strengthen U.S. Energy Independence

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission announced that it would pause implementation and take public comment on two natural gas pipeline certification policy statements the agency issued last month. The senator has been pushing back on the policies, which…
March 24, 2022
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Gov. Directs Flags Lowered in Honor of Albright

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Sunday, March 27, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of respect for former Secretary of State Madeleine…
March 23, 2022
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Burgum Announces $15M Available to Offset Cost of Local Workforce Solutions with Regional Impact

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum along with North Dakota Department of Commerce Workforce Director Katie Ralston Howe and Job Service North Dakota Executive Director Pat Bertagnolli today announced that $15 million is available to address the state’s workforce needs through the newly created North Dakota Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP). …
March 23, 2022
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Hammer Announces Run for PSC

Trygve Hammer, a Velva resident, has announced that he will seek the nomination for Public Service Commissioner at the State Democratic Convention to be held in Minot on March 25-27. “In my life, from my youth, I had a passion for service,” he said. “I believe that right now our…
March 23, 2022
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City Council Considering Local Recycling Facility

MINOT — The Minot City Council had a lengthy discussion on Monday about the possibility of a local recycling center in Minot.   Assistant Director of Public Works Jason Sorenson said, "We’ve been in discussions and talks with Closed Loop Partners for the last couple months and talking through some different opportunities.”…
March 22, 2022
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Senators Introduce Resolution to Honor Woman in Agriculture

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer today joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.), in introducing a bipartisan Senate Resolution calling for Thursday, March 24, 2022, to be designated as “National Women in Agriculture Day.” “There are more than 1,200,000 female agricultural producers in the…
March 22, 2022
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ND Senators Join Amicus Brief in Support of Workers Seeking Religious Exemptions from COVID Vaccine Mandates

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer joined Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and other senators in filing an amicus brief at the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the petition for certiorari in Dr. A. v. Hochul. Health care employees with religious objections to COVID-19 vaccines sued to…
March 21, 2022
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Erin Oban Appointed as ND State Director for USDA Rural Development

***Updated March 17, 2022 at 7:22 p.m. to include interview with Erin Oban*** WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden appointed Erin Oban Thursday to be North Dakota's U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director. Oban grew up in Ray and received her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education at…
March 17, 2022
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Homeless Rest at Ward County Administrative Building

County staff express concerns MINOT — Despite the presence of shelter care programs in Minot, some homeless folks have chosen to reside in the Ward County administrative building during the day, and that has raised concerns from multiple county employees. “People that we have assumed ‘homeless’ have been loitering in…
March 17, 2022
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Alan Walter Running Again for Ward County Commission

MINOT — Alan Walter, a former Ward County Commissioner, has announced he is running for a third term in the office, after County Commissioner John Pietsch announced he decided to step down. Having served on the county commission from 2012-2020, Walter says he has the experience to do the job.…
March 17, 2022
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Commissioners Vote Down Lease-to-Buy Agreement with Youthworks

Ward County is still open to offering financial assistance to Youthworks MINOT — Ward County Commissioners decided Tuesday to not purchase a new building for housing delinquents and children in need of short-term shelter, resulting in Youthworks having to consider alternative options for continuing their services in Minot. “The current…
March 16, 2022
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Senator Calls for Needed Lethal Aid, Increased Sanctions on Russia, Expanded U.S. Energy Production

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s address to Congress, Senator John Hoeven outlined additional actions the U.S. can take to support Ukraine and counter Russia’s aggression. Specifically, the senator stressed the need to: Provide the necessary lethal aid for Ukraine to defend themselves, as President Zelenskyy’s requested. This includes…
March 16, 2022
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Carbon Capture Pipeline: The Taxpayer's Side

The Summit Carbon Solutions (SCS) carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) project, slated to create 2000 miles of pipeline, is projected to cost $4.5 billion. With so much opposition from landowners and environmentalists, some may be surprised at how quickly the project is projected to move forward. Vice President of…
March 16, 2022
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Senator Votes to Nullify Mandate Requiring Masks on Planes, Buses, Trains

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today voted to strike down the federal mask mandate for public transportation, including on planes, buses, and trains. Hoeven joined Senator Rand Paul in introducing the legislation, a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Resolution of Disapproval, which would eliminate the mask mandate for public transportation…
March 15, 2022
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Ward County Zoning Ordinance Amendment Approved

Removal of Right-of-Way Dedications MINOT — Ward County Commissioners approved changes to the Ward County Zoning and Ordinance document Tuesday morning to eliminate right-of-way dedications. The changes will go on the ballot in June for Ward County residents to decide whether they will be added to the county’s zoning and…
March 15, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Press Biden to Continue Using American-made Fuels in Federal Fleet

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) today joined Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in urging President Joe Biden to continue utilizing liquid fuel vehicles in the federal fleet, including U.S. Postal Service (USPS) vehicles. In the letter, the senators warn the Biden administration against pressuring the…
March 14, 2022
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ND Delegation: DOT Orders Skywest to Fulfill EAS Contract, Continue Serving Jamestown & Devils Lake

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer and Congressman Kelly Armstrong issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued an order requiring that SkyWest Airlines continue the level of service required under its Essential Air Service (EAS) contracts, including in Jamestown and Devils Lake,…
March 14, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Press Attorney General, ATF for Answers on Secret Guidance Targeting Second Amendment Rights

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) recently joined Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) in pressing the U.S. Attorney General and the Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) for answers on the ATF’s use of internal guidance to enforce regulations that…
March 14, 2022
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49 Senators Press Administration to Maintain Strong Sanctions, Restrictions on Iran's Nuclear Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today joined Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, in pressing the Biden administration to not weaken sanctions or lessen restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program. The senators…
March 14, 2022
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Hoeven: Biden Administration Needs to Change Course, Support Oil, Gas, Coal Production

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a recent press conference with his Senate Republican colleagues, Senator John Hoeven outlined the impact of inflation on American families across all sectors of the economy, and the need to produce more energy in the U.S. in order to combat rising prices. The senator highlighted how…
March 14, 2022
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Commissioner John Fjeldahl Seeking Re-election

MINOT — Ward County Commissioner John Fjeldahl has decided to run for his fifth four-year term. “I originally got involved to represent the rural people,” explained Fjeldahl. Born and raised in North Dakota, Fjeldahl graduated from Berthold, spent a year at NDSU, worked construction, got into farming, and eventually started…
March 14, 2022

Looking for a Few Good… Delegates

MINOT — When the North Dakota State Democratic Convention convenes on March 25 in Minot, the hope of Souris Valley Dem-NPL chairman Joey Nesdahl is that all delegate positions from the four Minot Districts, 38, 40, 3, and 5, will be filled. “We still have time to fill the positions,”…
March 14, 2022
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Senators Urge Biden to Allow Transfer of Soviet-Era Fighter Aircraft from Poland to Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.), a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) in urging President Biden to allow the transfer of Soviet-era fighter aircraft from Poland to Ukraine. Ukraine has expressed the need for additional air power to help defend itself…
March 10, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Help Introduce Legislation to Ban Oil, Natural Gas Imports from Iran, Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) today joined Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) in introducing the Preempting Misguided Appeasement and Financing of Destabilizing Regimes Act to prohibit the U.S. from importing Iranian and Venezuelan crude oil, petroleum, petroleum products and liquified natural gas. “The Biden administration’s…
March 10, 2022
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Burgum: Pandemic Response Shifts Toward Endemic Status as COVID-19 Trends Improve

ND National Guard support for COVID-19 operations to end next week BISMARCK — As COVID-19 trends continue to improve and the second anniversary of the first recorded case in North Dakota approaches, Governor Doug Burgum today announced that the State of North Dakota is preparing for a shift toward an…
March 10, 2022
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Hoeven: Russian Energy Ban Important

Senator Urging Biden Administration to Block Russia from Selling Oil Elsewhere, Unlock America’s Domestic Energy Production WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement after the Biden administration announced that it…
March 8, 2022
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U.S. Senate Passes Burial Equity for Guard and Reserves Act

Senator Worked to Secure Support for Legislation with VA Under Secretary During Recent ND Visit WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved the Burial Equity for Guard and…
March 8, 2022
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Burgum says Ban on Russian Energy Imports is the Right Move

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced a ban on the import of Russian oil, liquified natural gas, and coal to the United States. “Banning Russian energy imports is the right step for the United States, our allies and the Ukrainian people…
March 8, 2022
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Hoeven on Legislation to Reform USPS

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven today helped pass the Postal Reform Act of 2022, legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), help address its financial losses and ensure reliable, high quality mail and parcel service across the nation, including in rural America. “We’ve worked to ensure USPS maintains…
March 8, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Meet with ND Members of Freedom Convoy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer met with Jim Swartout of Williston and other North Dakotans who are in Washington, D.C. to participate in the Freedom Convoy. “Americans have the right to exercise their constitutionally protected freedoms of speech and assembly,” said Hoeven. “The mandates that have…
March 8, 2022
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Carbon Capture Pipeline: The Environmentalists' Side

The carbon capture pipeline that Summit Carbon Solutions plans to build across five Midwest states  seems on its face to be an environmentalist's dream come true. It promises to capture and store millions of tons of carbon dioxide — a major component of greenhouse gases. When it first begins operation,…
March 8, 2022
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Data Shows Minot is a Strong Regional Market

MINOT — A national retail consulting group recently shared analytics through geofencing and heat maps on consumer traffic in Minot to help the city recruit retailers and restaurants, revealing it is a strong regional market. The Retail Coach's data showed Minot pulls in a healthy amount of business from throughout…
March 6, 2022
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Burgum, Fellow Governors Call on Biden to Unleash U.S. Oil and Gas Production, Restore Energy Independence

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum today joined 24 fellow Republican governors in calling on President Biden to unleash U.S. oil and gas production and restore American energy independence to protect U.S. consumers and help U.S. allies. “As governors, we call on President Biden to reverse his policies and restore America’s…
March 4, 2022
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Hoeven Presses FERC to Provide Certainty for Natural Gas Projects, Reverse New Partisan Policies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven pressed the members of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to provide certainty for developers of natural gas infrastructure so that consumers can see lower costs and the U.S. can unlock…
March 4, 2022
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Carbon Capture Pipeline: The Farmer's Side of the Story

By all accounts the proposed carbon capture pipeline that Summit Carbon Solutions plans to build through five states (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Iowa) will have a positive impact on North Dakota's economy, agriculture, and the environment. It promises to create more than 14,000 construction jobs in the…
March 4, 2022
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Commissioner John Pietsch not Seeking Second Term

MINOT — Commissioner John Pietsch announced on Tuesday that he will not be seeking re-election once his term expires this year. “In all fairness to anyone who may be interested in running for Ward County Commissioner, it is with some regret, I will not be running for a second term.…
March 3, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Introduce American Energy Independence from Russia Act in the Senate

Bicameral Effort Promotes American Energy Dominance to Offset Russian Imports WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) today led Senate colleagues in introducing the American Energy Independence from Russia Act. This bicameral legislation takes immediate action to encourage increased U.S. production, including: Authorizes the construction and…
March 3, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Support Coach Kennedy, Joins Amicus Brief

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) this week joined Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and other Senators and Members of the House of Representatives in filing an amicus brief at the U.S. Supreme Court in support of Coach Joe Kennedy in the case of Kennedy v.…
March 3, 2022
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Burgum announces Dickinson as site of 2022 Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum today announced that registration is now open for the sixth annual Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education on June 9 at Dickinson Middle School in Dickinson, N.D. The summit brings together local and national leaders in education to share best practices and engage with educators, administrators,…
March 3, 2022
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State Investment Board Votes to Divest of Russian Investments; Exposure Already Reduced by 37%

Land Board investments with Russian exposure also decrease from $28.8M to $9.7M BISMARCK — The State Investment Board (SIB) today voted to divest of investments in Russian entities or securities issued by Russian entities, as board members learned that Russian investment exposure already has been reduced by more than one-third…
March 3, 2022
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Carbon Capture Project Comes to North Dakota

CASSELTON — Governor Doug Burgum held a joint press conference today in Casselton with other industry leaders to announce a strategic investment plan for a carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) project. Summit Carbon Solutions of Iowa plans to build a 2000 mile long pipeline with 325 miles of pipeline…
March 2, 2022
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Vision Zero Teams Up with Local Businesses

Click It for Coffee to encourage safe driving MINOT — Vision Zero announced during the Ward County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, that it will be partnering with local businesses this year to reduce distractive driving. Vision Zero is a North Dakota Department of Transportation strategy aimed at preventing fatalities and…
March 2, 2022
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Burgum Proclaims Day of Prayer for Ukraine; Governor’s Residence to be lit in Ukrainian flag colors

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum issued a proclamation today declaring March 2, 2022, a day of prayer for the people of Ukraine as they continue to defend against attacks by Russian armed forces. The proclamation notes that many North Dakotans can trace their ancestral roots to Ukraine and that the United…
March 2, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Help Introduce Legislation to Cut Off Russian Petroleum Imports

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, joined Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kans.) today in introducing Senate legislation to ban the United States from purchasing Russian oil and remove Russian fuels from American supply chains. The prohibition in the bill would take effect 15 days after enactment and would…
March 1, 2022
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Ward County Commissioners Support Ukraine

MINOT — Ward County Commissioner John Pietsch read a resolution of support for Ukraine on behalf of the commissioners on Tuesday morning. “Let it be resolved that the members of the Ward County Commission of North Dakota affirm its unwavering support for the country of Ukraine, the people of Ukraine,…
March 1, 2022
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Hoeven Calls on President to Empower Domestic Energy Production, Counter Reliance on Russian Oil & Gas

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the floor of the U.S. Senate today, Senator John Hoeven called on the Biden administration to reverse its harmful approach to U.S. energy production. The senator stressed the need to empower greater domestic energy production in order to bring down inflation, strengthen the economy, enhance national…
March 1, 2022
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Splonskowski Announces Candidacy for Burleigh County Auditor

BISMARCK — Mark Splonskowski announced he is running for Burleigh County Auditor. Splonskowski was hired to work for Burleigh county tax and equalization in 2014 and is still employed there. "It has been a great pleasure working for Burleigh County and with the taxpayers," he said. In 2020 he was…
February 28, 2022
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Republicans Select State Delegates 

Becker, Hoeven Speak at Dis. 40 Meeting  MINOT — A total of 35 delegates to the state’s Republican Convention were selected during a District 40 meeting held here Saturday.   Twenty-four delegates were initially presented, followed by 11 additional nominations from the floor to complete the full allotment of convention delegates…
February 28, 2022
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Land Board Votes to Appeal Newfield Case but Not Statute of Limitations on Disputed Royalty Payments

BISMARCK — The North Dakota Board of University and School Lands (Land Board) issued the following statement after Thursday’s meeting during which the Land Board voted unanimously to continue to appeal a judge’s ruling in a lawsuit over disputed oil and gas royalty payments owed to the state. The Land…
February 25, 2022
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Hoeven: America's Energy Security More Important Than Ever

Senator Outlines Efforts to Bolster Domestic Energy Production, Push Back on Biden Administration’s Harmful Policies GRAND FORKS — During a meeting at the University of North Dakota’s (UND) Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) today, Senator John Hoeven outlined the importance of domestic energy production, both to ensure the nation…
February 25, 2022
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Hoeven State on President's Supreme Court Nominee

GRAND FORKS — Senator John Hoeven released the following statement after the President nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. “I believe we need Supreme Court Justices who are committed to upholding the law and that do not try to…
February 25, 2022
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Hoeven Statement on Russia's Attack on Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement today regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Russia’s invasion is an unprovoked attack on the Ukrainian people and a warning to all of Europe. The United States must work closely with our allies to…
February 24, 2022
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Burgum Statement on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

BISMARCK — Governor Doug Burgum released the following statement today regarding Russia’s military attacks on Ukraine. “We support and pray for the Ukrainian people as they defend themselves against these brazen acts of aggression by Russia and President Putin, which we condemn in the strongest terms possible. The United States…
February 24, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Call on Treasury to Help Auto Dealerships Handle Inflation, Supply Chain Shortages

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) in urging the U.S. Department of the Treasury to use its existing authority to provide temporary and targeted relief to the automobile industry as dealerships struggle with inflation and inventory shortages amidst ongoing supply…
February 23, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Urge Administration to Increase Liquified Natural Gas Exports, Support European Allies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in urging the Department of Energy (DOE) to increase liquified natural gas (LNG) exports to European allies. This letter comes in response to a February 2nd letter signed by 10 Democratic senators calling for…
February 23, 2022
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SuAnn Olson Announces Candidacy for State Representative

Bismarck — SuAnn Olson, R-Baldwin, announced that she is entering the Republican race for a District 8 House seat. “I am excited to announce that I’m entering the Republican race for a District 8 House seat. I will use my great energy to work for the people of District 8…
February 23, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Help Introduce Legislation to End Vaccine Mandates for International Truckers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) recently joined Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) in introducing the Terminating Reckless and Unnecessary Checks Known to Erode Regular Shipping (TRUCKERS) Act. This legislation exempts non-U.S. citizen commercial truck drivers from proof of vaccination requirements when temporarily entering the United…
February 22, 2022

Ward County Road, Bridge Repair Projects

Update on right-of-way dedication amendment  MINOT — The Ward County Commissioners approved to bid out micro surfacing, chip seal, and bridge replacement projects estimated at $3 million.  The micro surfacing, a process to eliminate rutting from roadways, would bring maintenance to the following roads County Road 9 between County Road…
February 21, 2022

Ward County ARPA Application Portal in the Works 

Commissioners decline financial firm’s portal services  MINOT — Ward County Commissioners decided to have staff members create an online portal for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund applications rather than using services from a financial firm.   The commissioners had considered using the services of CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA).  “They are just…
February 21, 2022

Candidates Highlight Meeting

Dis. 3 Chooses Convention Delegates  MINOT — Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., and Rick Becker, Bismarck, each spoke to a gathering of District 3 republicans during an organizational meeting here this past weekend.  Hoeven has been serving in the Senate since 2011. Prior to that he had a 10-year run as…
February 21, 2022
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Proud of the Road Taken

State of the City MINOT — Most seats were filled as Mayor Shaun Sipma delivered the State of the City address to a luncheon meeting held at the Cognizant building that will house Minot’s second high school. Mayor Sipma pointed to “the collective decisions we have made with purpose, not…
February 18, 2022
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Gawrylow Launches Bid for Burleigh County Commission

BISMARCK — Bismarck resident Dustin Gawrylow announced his intention to seek a seat on the Bismarck County Commission. Gawrylow is a political consultant and lobbyist by trade and specializes in Taxpayer Advocacy – having served as the Managing Director of the North Dakota Watchdog Network since 2012, and Executive Director…
February 16, 2022

Souris Valley Dems Schedule Re-Organization Meeting

MINOT — The Dakotan was able to have a recent discussion with Joseph Nesdahl, Chairman of the Souris Valley Dem-NPL. The SVDNPL represents the 4 Legislative Districts, 38, 40, 3 & 5, in Minot. Nesdahl is the Chairman of the group, and also the Chairman of District 3. In our…
February 16, 2022
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Tribes Challenge Redistricting 

Issue Headed to Federal Court  MINOT — The recently revised legislative district map is about to be challenged in federal court.  The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, Belcourt, and the Spirit Lake Tribe, Devils Lake, maintain the new district boundaries for selecting representatives to the state capitol violates the Voting…
February 16, 2022
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Burgum Outlined Efforts to Address Workforce, Grow Economy in State of the State Address

FARGO — Governor Doug Burgum delivered his 2022 State of the State Address Wednesday, highlighting the state’s efforts to address North Dakota’s workforce challenges and grow and diversify the economy. Addressing business leaders, legislators, statewide elected officials, local leaders, students and other audience members at the Fargo Theatre and online,…
February 16, 2022
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Group Submits 46,000 Signatures for State Term Limit Measure

Most signatures in North Dakota history for a ballot measure Bismarck — North Dakota Term Limits announced that it has submitted more than 46,000 required signatures to send a term limits measure for governor and state lawmakers to the ballot this November.  North Dakota law requires only 31,164 signatures for…
February 15, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Join Colleagues Pressing for Release of Keystone XL Pipeline Jobs Loss Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) in pressing for U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to release the Keystone XL Pipeline jobs loss report that was due to Congress on February 13, 2022. On his…
February 15, 2022
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Hoeven, Cramer Join Resolution Calling for Re-opening of Capitol, Senate Office Buildings

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) in introducing a Senate resolution in support of re-opening the U.S. Capitol and Senate office buildings, returning to pre-pandemic accessibility for visitors. For the past two years, the Capitol and Senate office buildings have…
February 15, 2022
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Brandon Prichard Running for District 8 House Seat

BISMARCK — Brandon Prichard of Bismarck announced that he is seeking the Republican nomination for State House in District 8. Prichard is a fifth generation North Dakotan who was born and raised in Bismarck. “I’m very excited to jump in the race to represent the community I’ve known my whole…
February 15, 2022
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Hoeven Joins Thune, Colleagues in Introducing Resolution to Nullify Head Start Vaccine, Masks Mandates

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., joined Senator John Thune, R-S.D., in introducing a resolution to nullify a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) interim final rule (IFR) that requires all Head Start staff and volunteers to be fully vaccinated and wear a mask. If enacted, this…
February 14, 2022
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Burgum Appoints Sheri Haugen-Hoffart to ND Public Service Commission

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Capital Electric Cooperative Inc. board chairwoman Sheri Haugen-Hoffart of Bismarck to an open seat on the three-member North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC), effective immediately. Haugen-Hoffart has served as a human resource officer in the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner since…
February 11, 2022
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Fedorchak Seeking Another Term on PSC

BISMARCK — North Dakota Public Service Commission Chair Julie Fedorchak announced Thursday she running for another six-year term on the commission. Fedorchak says she is committed to advocating both in state and nationally for reliable and affordable utility services during this time of dramatic industry-wide change. “While partisan divides and extremism…
February 10, 2022
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Tracy Potter Seeking District 35 Senate Seat

BISMARCK — Former State Senator Tracy Potter announced Thursday he is running for the North Dakota Senate seat in District 35 being vacated by Erin Oban. Potter says the two major issues motivating his campaign are property tax relief for homeowners and protecting the rights of citizens to initiate and…
February 10, 2022
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Grant to UND for Pilot Workforce Development Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded $500,000 to the University of North Dakota (UND). This funding was made available through the FAA Aviation Workforce Development Grant Program, which Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., helped create in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, to support workforce development for…
February 9, 2022
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Legislation Introduced to Reverse IRS Snooping on Third-Party Payment Platforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) in introducing the Stop the Nosy Obsession with Online Payments (SNOOP) Act. This legislation would strike the provision included in the Democrats’ American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) that requires third-party payment platforms to report gross transaction volumes totaling more…
February 8, 2022
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Burgum Appoints Drew Wrigley to Serve as Attorney General

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum today appointed former U.S. attorney and lieutenant governor Drew Wrigley to serve out the remainder of Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem’s term after his sudden passing on Jan. 28. The four-year term ends Dec. 31. Wrigley plans to take the oath of office at 9 a.m.…
February 8, 2022
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Hoeven Leads Bicameral Effort Supporting Access to Credit for Farmers & Ranchers

WASHINGTON, D.C — Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., this week led a bicameral effort pressing the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) to continue supporting agriculture producers’ access to credit. In a letter to NCUA Chairman Todd Harper, Hoeven and his colleagues questioned language included in the NCUA’s Draft Strategic Plan that…
February 8, 2022
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Becker Announces Run for U.S. Senate Seat

BISMARCK — State Representative Rick Becker, R-Dis. 7, announced he is running for the United States Senate against longtime Senator John Hoeven. He released a statement saying, "Washington, D.C. is a cesspool of corrupt politicians. The only solution to fix this problem is to send passionate, strong conservatives who will…
February 7, 2022
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Hoeven Helps Introduce Legislation to Ease Export Shipping Backlogs

Farmers, other exporters need access to shipping containers WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., along with Senators Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., John Thune, R-S.D., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., this week introduced the Ocean Shipping Reform Act in the Senate. This bipartisan legislation would update federal regulations for the global shipping…
February 4, 2022
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Minot City Councilman Announces Bid for Mayor

MINOT — Almost exactly two years after announcing his candidacy to run for a position on Minot’s City Council, Alderman Tom Ross has announced his bid to be Minot’s next Mayor.  “As an elected member of Minot’s City Council, it became very clear early on in my first term, a…
February 4, 2022
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Ward County ARPA Committee Shares Recommendations

MINOT — The committee created to disburse federal coronavirus relief funds presented their recommendations Tuesday before the Ward County Commissioners.   There is a total of $13.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds available for internal and external projects throughout the county. $10 million of which can be used towards various projects…
February 3, 2022
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Loegering Announces Candidacy for District 28

LAMOURE COUNTY – Josh Loegering has announced his run for the State House in District 28. Loegering grew up on a farm in central Minnesota, the oldest of nine children. He attended North Dakota State University and obtained a degree in Civil Engineering. Josh and his wife, Christine, have been…
February 2, 2022
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A Prescription for Congress in 2023

Although nothing is a sure bet in politics, at this point it seems that the Republicans are well poised to take back both the House and the Senate.  Unfortunately, as is often the case for elections, it will be due more to the poor performance of the Biden administration and…
January 31, 2022
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Flags to Remain at Half-Staff through Thursday as Funeral Services Set for Stenehjem

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to continue flying the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Thursday, Feb. 3, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, in honor of Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem and his more…
January 30, 2022
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Rep. Ertelt Announces Run for State Senate

GWINNER — Rep. Sebastian Ertelt, R-Dis. 26, Gwinner, has announced his run for the State Senate in the newly-redistricted District 28. Ertelt was elected to District 26 in 2016, and reelected in 2020 to another four-year term. He has served all of his three regular sessions on the House Finance…
January 30, 2022
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Wayne Stenehjem Passes Away

BISMARCK — Longtime North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem has passed away at age 68. Stenehjem was the longest-serving attorney general in North Dakota history, having held the position for 21 years. He was elected as the state’s 29th attorney general in 2000 and was re-elected in 2004, 2006, 2010,…
January 28, 2022

Grassroots Workshop Coming to Fargo

FARGO – A grassroots workshop aimed at providing information to those interested in the political process is scheduled for Feb. 1 in Fargo. It is being sponsored by Fargo Grassroots and is similar to ones held in Bismarck earlier in January.   The workshop is designed to help those new to,…
January 27, 2022
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Burgum to Attend NGA Winter Meeting

BISMARCK — Gov. Doug Burgum will attend the National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting Friday through Monday in Washington, D.C., as the bipartisan gathering of the nation’s governors takes place in person for the first time in two years. Governors will discuss best practices and collaboration on top policy issues…
January 27, 2022
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Hoeven Outlines Phase 4 of Minot's Flood Protection

MINOT — Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, met with local leaders and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials in Minot Wednesday afternoon to go over the permanent flood protection plan for the Souris River Valley. The group toured the site of the project's 4th phase and discussed the next steps in…
January 26, 2022
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Ward County Consults with Wealth Advising Firm

WARD COUNTY — Members of the Ward County Commission met with a wealth management team on Monday to discuss American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.  The ARPA fund committee, consulted with representatives from CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Wealth Advisors, LLP to prepare options for allocating ARPA funds throughout the county.   CLA…
January 25, 2022
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Politics Shape Our World

This has been an eventful week for me, politically speaking.  I announced my retirement from the state legislature at the upcoming completion of my term in December.  It will have been a 10 year stint.  Like many, I viewed the legislative seat not as mine to fight for and keep,…
January 24, 2022
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Ward County Prepares ARPA Fund Recommendations 

County seeks to remove abandoned building in Kenmare  WARD COUNTY — Ward County Commissioners have identified a building in Kenmare that they say should be demolished. [Video of the full meeting]  The county is in the process of developing a list of recommendations for spending $13.2 million in American Rescue…
January 21, 2022
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Rep. Rick Becker Announces Retirement from the State Legislature

BISMARCK — Representative Rick Becker, R-Dis. 7, Bismarck, announced his retirement from the state legislature at the conclusion of his current term in December.  He has served in the North Dakota House since 2013. Rep. Becker stated, “It has been an honor to serve the people of North Dakota.  I…
January 20, 2022
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Hoeven and Cramer Urge HHS to Rescind Mask and Vaccine Mandates on Head Start Programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, and Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND, joined Senator John Thune, R-SD, in urging U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to rescind an interim final rule (IFR) that places one-size-fits-all federal mandates on Head Start programs across the nation. Included…
January 20, 2022
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Minot Officials Respond to Federal Funding Announcement for Flood Control Project

MINOT — A key phase of the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project has received a major financial boost. Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, announced this week that $61.45 million has been secured to complete funding for Phase 4, also known as the Maple Diversion. “This is great news for Minot…
January 20, 2022
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Additional FY2022 Army Corps Funding for ND Water and Sewer Projects

Includes More than $20 Million for Maintenance at Lake Sakakawea and Garrison Dam WASHINGTON, D.C.–Senator John Hoeven, R-ND, announced more than $35 million in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ funding that he worked to secure for water management and sewer projects across North Dakota. This comes in addition to the $437 million and $61.45…
January 19, 2022
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Howe Announces Candidacy for ND Secretary of State

North Dakota State Representative Michael Howe, R-Dis. 22, Casselton, announced he is running for Secretary of State of North Dakota.  In his announcement, Howe highlighted his fifth-generation family farming business and his service in the North Dakota House of Representatives since 2017. Current Secretary of State Al Jaeger announced last…
January 19, 2022
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$61.45 Million for Permanent Flood Protection in Minot Region

Funding Fulfills Federal Commitment for Souris River Valley Flood Protection Project MINOT–Senator John Hoeven today announced that he worked with Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Shalanda Young to secure $61.45 million in federal funding for permanent flood protection in the Souris River Valley. This funding,…
January 19, 2022
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NDYR Pass Two Resolutions at Convention

Two resolutions passed by the North Dakota Young Republicans at their annual convention in Bismarck this past weekend addressed key issues being debated nationally.  The first, a “Resolution Affirming Free Speech with Emphasis on Educational Environments”, introduced by NDYR secretary Rory Somsen, speaks to the fact that college campuses have…
January 18, 2022
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ND Young Republicans Gather in Bismarck for Convention

BISMARCK—North Dakota Young Republicans (NDYR) from across the state gathered at Capitol Heights Baptist Church in Bismarck on Saturday, Jan. 15 for their annual convention.   Informal business included a lineup of speakers ranging from state elected Republicans to Young Republican National Federation representatives to Young Republican candidates running in…
January 18, 2022
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2022

I have long lamented the state of affairs with the political parties in North Dakota.  The Republican party has become a very big-tent party.  In most of the state, if someone wants to run for office, they realize their only hope for success is to run as a Republican.  They…
January 17, 2022
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Supreme Court Blocks Biden Administration's Vaccine Mandate on Private Employers

ND’s Top Politicians Weigh in on Ruling  WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Biden administration did not have authority to impose a vaccine mandate on private businesses with 100 or more employees.   North Dakota’s congressional delegation had joined a bicameral effort, led by Senator Mike Braun (R-Ind.), in…
January 13, 2022
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City of Minot Schedules State of the City for Feb.18

MINOT—The fifth annual State of the City, featuring an address from Mayor Shaun Sipma, will be held Feb. 18. The noon luncheon event will take place at the former Cognizant building located at 2000 21st Avenue NW. The building is now owned by the Minot Public School District, and is…
January 13, 2022
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Judge Gary Lee Announces Re-Election Bid 

District Judge will seek his fourth term  MINOT—North Central District Court Judge Gary H. Lee has announced he will seek re-election this year for what would be his fourth six-year term.   Judge Lee, a Minot native since the age of three, was first elected as District Judge in 2004 and…
January 13, 2022
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ND Catholic Conference Asks UND to “Reject” Gender Inclusion Proposal

Sends letter to parents GRAND FORKS—The North Dakota Catholic Conference sent out a letter to parents on January 10 urging them to “examine the [UND] campus environment” and to discern whether the ideologies and policies practiced there are “conducive or hostile” to the Catholic faith and human rights.  This comes…
January 13, 2022

State Rep. Shannon Roers Jones Declares Mayoral Candidacy 

Current legislator will run for Mayor of Fargo  FARGO—Republican Rep. Shannon Roers Jones, R-Dis. 46, announced today that she will seek election to the office of mayor in her home city.   A Fargo native, Rep. Roers Jones works as an attorney in the family business, Roers Construction. She has served…
January 11, 2022
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House Majority Leader Chet Pollert Announces Retirement 

Won’t seek re-election this year  BISMARCK—North Dakota House Majority Leader Chet Pollert, R-Dis. 29, Carrington, today announced he will retire from the legislature when his term expires near the end of this year. Rep. Pollert has served in the House since 1999 and has served as House Majority Leader since…
January 10, 2022
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Matt Heilman Throws Hat into Already Crowded Ring 

Announces candidacy for ND House seat in District 7  BISMARCK—Bismarck resident Matt Heilman announced his candidacy today for a seat in the North Dakota House of Representatives in District 7.  In his press release, Heilman wrote, “As an activist, I’ve proven I can work well with others in accomplishing mutual…
January 10, 2022
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Grassroots Workshops Aim to Educate Citizens

BISMARCK—More than 70 people attended a grassroots workshop in Bismarck Friday, Jan. 7. These citizens gathered for a day-long workshop to glean wisdom from current and former North Dakota legislators and from others who understand the political process. The goal is to educate people on how they can get involved…
January 7, 2022
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Retha Mattern Announces Run for House Seat in District 7

BISMARCK—Bismarck resident Retha Mattern announced her candidacy for the North Dakota State House of Representatives on Thursday, Jan. 6.   According to her press release, Mattern explained, “I feel there is a missing voice in the House, one that represents the needs of residents in District 7 who understand the challenges…
January 7, 2022
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Challenges for My Side of the Aisle in Upcoming 2022 Elections 

 Editor’s note—The Dakotan has asked one legislator from either side of the aisle to answer the following question: “What challenges do you foresee on your side of the aisle as we enter a new campaign season in 2022?” What follows is the response we received from Rep. Sebastian Ertelt, R-Dis.…
January 7, 2022
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What Challenges Face the Democratic Nonpartisan League in North Dakota? 

Editor’s note—The Dakotan has asked one legislator from either side of the aisle to answer the following question: “What challenges do you foresee on your side of the aisle as we enter a new campaign season in 2022?” What follows is the response we received from Rep. Marvin Nelson, D-Dis. 9, Rolla.   We also…
January 7, 2022
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Burgum, Gianforte Stake Friendly Wager on NDSU and Montana State Game

BISMARCK – North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte have staked a friendly wager on Saturday’s NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) title game between the Montana State University Bobcats and the North Dakota State University Bison, who are vying for their ninth national title since 2011. The…
January 6, 2022
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Minot City Council Approves Preserving Anne Street Bridge 

MINOT—Minot City Council moved to approve preserving the Anne Street Bridge in a 4-3 vote on Monday, Jan. 3,. [mtg agenda]  In the previous council meeting dealing with the flood control project, Alderman Tom Ross stated that he needed “to see something significant” that would convince him to support keeping…
January 6, 2022
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Hoeven, Daines Make Friendly Wager on Bison-Bobcat Matchup

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Senator John Hoeven this week agreed to a friendly wager with Montana Senator Steve Daines ahead of the FCS National Championship game in Frisco, Texas, this weekend.   On Saturday, January 8, the North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison will take on the Montana State University (MSU) Bobcats at Toyota…
January 5, 2022
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ND Congressional Delegation Joins Effort to Block Vaccine Mandate on Private Employers

WASHINGTON, D.C.—North Dakota’s Congressional delegation has joined more than 130 U.S. Representatives and more than 40 U.S. Senators in filing an amicus brief to the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in an upcoming case considering the Biden administration’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS)…
January 3, 2022
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Tatanka Wind Farm Not Being Decommissioned

BISMARCK—Last week The Dakotan reported on a new decommissioning plan for the North Dakota side of the Tatanka Wind Farm. On Dec. 29 the Public Service Commission (PSC) accepted that new decommissioning plan for the 61 turbines located in Dickey County. The other 59 turbines of the wind farm are located in South Dakota.   In that previous article, The…
January 3, 2022
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ND Regulators Accept New Plan to Decommission Wind Farm 

61 Turbines on ND side of Tatanka Wind Farm slated to come down  BISMARCK—The North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC) voted 2-1 earlier this week to accept a revised proposal by Tatanka Wind Power, LLC, to decommission the North Dakota portion of its Tatanka Wind Farm, which straddles the North Dakota/South Dakota border. Sixty-one of the total…
December 31, 2021
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Redistricting Could Change Where You Vote in 2022 

Ward County Seeks Approval for MSU Dome and Sawyer City Hall as New Polling Sites  MINOT—Tuesday, Dec. 21, Ward County Commissioners agreed to select the Minot State University (MSU) Dome and Sawyer City Hall as new polling locations for primary and general elections.   The board is awaiting approval from MSU and Sawyer to confirm the new polling locations in 2022. According to the North Dakota Century Code, polling locations must be established by at…
December 27, 2021
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Sen. Cramer Christmas Message

BISMARCK–U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND released a Christmas video message: “This Christmas season, as we celebrate the birth of a savior, I’m overwhelmed with emotion. What overwhelms me the most is that we have the creator of the universe who wanted to reconcile with his most favorite creation of all:…
December 25, 2021
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Secretary of the Air Force Meets with Task Force 21

North Dakota’s role in U.S. nuclear capabilities at the forefront   MINOT—Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall met today with North Dakota’s senate delegation and members of Task Force 21 (TF-21) after personally reviewing the missions and operations at Minot Air Force Base.  U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, stated in his press release about the discussions, “The servicemembers stationed at the Minot…
December 23, 2021
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New Tax Commissioner Appointed

Gov. Burgum Taps PSC Commissioner Brian Kroshus  BISMARCK—Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Brian Kroshus to serve as North Dakota’s next tax commissioner. Kroshus will serve out the remaining year of the unexpired four-year term of current Tax Commissioner Ryan Rauschenberger, who is resigning effective Jan. 3, 2022.  Kroshus has been a member of…
December 22, 2021
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Minot Flood Control Project and the Fate of Anne Street Bridge 

MINOT—Monday, Dec. 20, the City Council unanimously agreed to wait two weeks before giving its decision on the MI-6 phase of the flood control project, a decision that could result in either the demolition or remodeling of the historic Anne Street (or Saint Anne’s) Bridge that intersects with the schematics of the project.  In presenting the plans before the City Council, Public Works Director Dan Jonassan introduced the Project Engineer Jerry Bents, who gave a brief overview of the project. …
December 21, 2021
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Tioga City Commission Votes to Increase Consultant’s Salary

Tioga—The Tioga City Commission voted 3-2 Monday night to increase Economic Development Committee (EDC) Consultant Dennis Lindahl’s salary from $60,000 to $70,000 per year. The approval occurred after much discussion among the commissioners, and only after the proposed raise was reduced from $20,000 to $10,000 per year. Commissioners voted 2-2…
December 21, 2021
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Minot Mayor to Run for Second Term 

Shaun Sipma says second term would be his last  MINOT—Mayor Shaun Sipma announced today he will run for a second and final term as mayor.  In his press release Mayor Sipma stated, “There is a tremendous amount of optimism and growth taking place right now in the Magic City. We have become a much more business friendly…
December 21, 2021
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Protesting NDGOP Chairs Explain Reasoning Behind Walkout

BISMARCK—Six of the seven Republican district chairs who recently walked out of the state Republican committee meeting held a press conference in Bismarck this evening to explain their reasoning. The protesting district chairs say they left Saturday’s meeting primarily because they believe the voters of North Dakota are being eliminated…
December 20, 2021
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ND Young Republicans Respond to Saturday’s State Party Decisions

“Next generation Republican leaders stifled”   BISMARCK—This past Saturday’s Republican party state committee meeting included plenty of controversy.   One specific controversial item involved the future role for the North Dakota Young Republicans (NDYR) and North Dakota College Republicans (NDCR) at the table among the state committee. According to Daryle Mindeman, state chair of the NDYR, the state committee voted on Saturday to make NDYR…
December 20, 2021
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NDGOP Reports on December State Committee Meeting

Responds to walkout protestors BISMARCK—Today, Perrie Schafer, Chairman of the North Dakota Republican Party (NDGOP) released the following statement in response to the conclusion of its December State Committee Meeting: “I want to thank the hardworking members of the NDGOP State Committee who took the time before the holidays to…
December 19, 2021
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Walkout Protest at State GOP Meeting

Seven district chairs leave what they consider illegitimate proceedings **UPDATE--Sunday, Dec. 19, 9:20 a.m.--NDGOP state party Chairman Perrie Schafer released a report on the state committee meeting on Saturday evening. Read his full statement. BISMARCK—An unprecedented walkout occurred at the North Dakota Republican Party state meeting this morning. Seven district…
December 18, 2021
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ND Attorney General Won’t Seek Re-Election in 2022

Wayne Stenehjem announces current term will be his last  BISMARCK—Today, Friday, Dec. 17, North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem announced he will not seek re-election in 2022. This will likely mark the end of a lifelong period of public service.  By the end of his term, Stenehjem will have served as the state’s Attorney General for 22 years, a tenure longer than his three predecessors combined.…
December 17, 2021
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Controversial Amendments Proposed for NDGOP Meeting

Saturday votes could significantly restrict grass roots candidates  BISMARCK—If you’re a North Dakota resident who typically avoids articles about political squabbling, the subject of this article may affect you far more than you realize.  On Saturday, Dec. 18, the North Dakotan Republican party state committee will meet to conduct business that includes a few controversial…
December 17, 2021
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Confusion Regarding District 7 Senate Candidate Michelle Axtman

A little investigation and communication clears up misunderstanding BISMARCK—On Dec. 14, the Bismarck Tribune reported that Air Force Officer and Bismarck native Michelle Axtman had announced her candidacy for the District 7 senate seat currently held by Sen. Nicole Poolman, R-Dis. 7, Bismarck, who herself had announced in November she…
December 17, 2021
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Pentagon stops implementing vaccine mandate for defense contractors

The department has stopped implementing the vaccine mandate for federal contractors. WASHINGTON—The race to vaccinate defense workers is now at a standstill, after a US district court judge blocked the implementation of the vaccine mandate for federal contractors last week. The Defense Department issued a Dec. 9 memo instructing its…
December 17, 2021
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State Senator Rich Wardner Not Seeking Re-election 

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…
December 16, 2021
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Minot Man Serving on Multiple Boards 

MINOT–Last week, The Dakotan released an article on the newly elected chairman, Jim Rostad, on the board of County Commissioners [link here].   Rostad happens to simultaneously be chairman on the school board for Minot Public Schools (MPS) also.   When asked if he thought this might involve too much power being vested in one individual at the local level, he stated that he…
December 16, 2021
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Congress Passes 2022 NDAA, Sending Bill to President Biden

The Senate passed the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act on Dec. 15, sending the annual policy bill to President Joe Biden’s desk and ensuring that Congress’ long-standing record of passing an NDAA every year remains unbroken.  “I am pleased that the Senate has voted in an overwhelming, bipartisan fashion to…
December 15, 2021
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ND Senator Jason Heitkamp Announces Run for House Seat 

WYNDMERE—North Dakota Senator Jason Heitkamp, R-Dis. 26, Wyndmere, has announced he will seek election to the House of Representatives during this upcoming 2022 campaign season.   Because of the redistricting plan  the legislature approved in November’s special session, Sen. Heitkamp finds himself in a district that will be disappearing. For that reason, he will be running in what will be the…
December 14, 2021
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Vaccine Mandate Impacting Head Start

Program being forced to close classrooms over staffing concerns By: Jasahd Stewart  Minot – Minot Head Start is planning to close several classrooms to comply with President Biden’s executive order regarding the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. It is a federally funded program and will need to comply, so any staff members who do not wish to be…
December 10, 2021
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Ward County Commissioners Elect New Chairman

MINOT–The Ward County Commissioners elected Jim Rostad as the new chairman of the board Tuesday morning, Dec. 7.  Rostad explained how the duties of being chairman are “not new or shocking” to him, therefore he accepted the position.  “I don’t miss many county meetings. I think I pretty much know what’s going on with the limits of being a county commissioner… I’ve been here for 5 years, so I have a…
December 9, 2021
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Moving Forward with the Realignment Project 

What happens next? MINOT–Now that voters have given approval to the Minot Public Schools' (MPS) Realignment Project, what is the next step?  “We’ve got to move on to start taking this schematic design into the final product of getting ready to move dirt and get the ball rolling,” stated MPS Superintendent Mark…
December 8, 2021
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All 3 Measures Pass

In Minot's School Bond Election  MINOT—Voters chose to pass all 3 measures in Tuesday's school bond election. Measure 1 regarding the $84.4 million request for a trifold project that would create 2 grades 9-12 high schools from the donated Cognizant building on North Hill and Magic City Campus, as well as an additional middle school from the Central Campus facility passed with…
December 7, 2021
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Magrum to Seek Senate Seat 

In announcing his intentions Magrum said, “I’ve served my time in the House. I am on the sponsoring committee for the term limit measure expected to be on next year’s ballot. Moving to the Senate reflects my firm belief in term limits.”
December 6, 2021
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Breakdown of Measures for the School Bond Election

Residents in the Minot Public School District still have the opportunity to vote on the current school bond proposals. Early voting is happening at the Ward County Administration building, Friday, Dec. 3 and Monday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Election Day will be at the Minot Municipal Auditorium on Dec. 7 from 7 a.m.to 7 p.m.  The ballot consists of…
December 3, 2021
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Judge Expands Injunction Against Vaccine Mandate

Reversal for President Biden  Healthcare workers will no longer be forced to choose between termination or complying with President Biden’s national vaccine mandate for COVID-19. A federal judge in Louisiana issued a preliminary injunction Tuesday. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, or CMS, was the agency that issued the vaccine mandate presented to the court.  “There is no question that mandating…
December 1, 2021
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Sean Cleary Throws Hat in District 35 Ring

Republican announces candidacy for seat to be vacated by Senator Erin Oban BISMARCK—Less than two weeks after North Dakota Senator Erin Oban, D-Dis. 35, Bismarck, announced on Nov. 18 she would not seek re-election in 2022, one candidate has already thrown his hat into the ring. Sean Cleary, a Bismarck…
November 29, 2021
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Court Halts Vaccine Mandate

Healthcare Workers Impacted  BISMARCK – A district judge Monday issued a preliminary injunction against the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandate for healthcare workers. The ruling stated that “defendants shall immediately cease all implementation or enforcement of the Interim Final Rule with Comment Period as to any Medicare and Medicaid-certified providers and suppliers” in…
November 29, 2021
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How to Vote in Upcoming Minot Public Schools Bond Election

**UPDATE: This article has been corrected to show that early voting will take place every day from Monday, Nov. 29 through Friday, Dec. 3, as well as Monday, Dec. 6. The information regarding election day, Tuesday, Dec. 7, has not changed. MINOT — Residents of the Minot Public School District…
November 26, 2021
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House Passes Huge Spending Bill

ND Legislators Voice Opposition Washington, D.C. – The United States House of Representatives passed a $1.9 trillion spending bill Friday morning. Dubbed social safety net expansion legislation, the bill passed 220-213.  The legislation is a key piece of President Joe Biden’s domestic transformation program. It now goes to the Senate…
November 20, 2021
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Senator Erin Oban Announces She Won't Seek Re-Election

BISMARCK — North Dakota Senator Erin Oban, D-Dis. 35, Bismarck, announced Thursday, Nov. 18, she will not seek re-election in 2022 when her current term expires. In a detailed post on her Facebook page, Sen. Oban explained the reasons for her decision. “This is not me quitting or giving up,”…
November 18, 2021
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New Hospital Proposed

Boost from State Legislature  RUGBY – It is a start. A significant one too.  Among the dollars allocated during the recent special session of the North Dakota legislature was $1 million “for the purpose of providing a grant for the construction of a new medical center located in the county seat of Pierce…
November 16, 2021
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Post-Rally Press Conference Confusion

What really happened inside the Capitol last week? On Monday, Nov. 8, thousands of North Dakotans gathered in front of the Capitol for the We The People Rally. The rally ended with organizer Jared Hendrix asking people to attend the press conference inside. Approximately 300 of the rally goers moved inside to…
November 15, 2021
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Anti-Vaccine-Mandate Bill Passes

Bill provides more North Dakotans with exemption options As this week’s legislative special session came to a close, a bill limiting and regulating COVID-vaccine mandates passed both houses of the North Dakota legislature today, Friday, Nov. 12. Now it only needs the governor’s signature to become state law.  What exactly HB 1511 accomplishes…
November 12, 2021
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Anti-CRT Bill Passes Legislature

CRT to be prohibited from being taught in public schools On Friday, Nov. 8, The North Dakota Senate passed a bill banning the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT) in North Dakota public schools. The passage of HB 1508, sponsored by Rep. Jim Kasper (R-Dis. 46, Fargo), occurred this morning, Friday, Nov. 8,…
November 12, 2021
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Legislative Redistricting Bill Signed

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has signed HB 1504, the legislative redistricting bill approved this week during a special legislative session. Redistricting was on the “must do” list for legislators. A new district alignment was necessary due to population growth revealed in the 2020 census.  “The historic process marked the first…
November 12, 2021
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Spending Plan Approved

House, Senate Pass Burgum Bill BISMARCK – In his opening address Monday to a special session of the State Legislature, Governor Doug Burgum outlined his proposal for spending nearly $1.2 billion. The money came to the state through the American Rescue Plan Act, a federal response intended for COVID-19 relief.  In an evening session Thursday,…
November 12, 2021
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Rep. Hoverson Apologizes to House

6:05 p.m., Nov. 11--As a follow up to an earlier report by The Dakotan, Rep. Jeff Hoverson (R-Dis. 3, Minot) apologized to the entire House of Representatives in this evening's current session. He apologized for his actions "out of the decorum of the body," referring to his very public comment…
November 11, 2021
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Anti-Vaccine-Mandate Bill Moves Forward

5:35 p.m., Nov. 11-- HB 1511 has been moved forward by the Joint Technical Corrections Committee. This bill is the only bill moving forward that would offer protection to many North Dakotans from COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Because the JTCC moved HB 1511 forward with a Do Pass recommendation, they gave…
November 11, 2021
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"Right To Try" Bill Moves Forward

3:45 p.m., Nov. 11--HB 1514, sponsored by Rep. Bill Tveit (R-Dis. 33, Hazen), was sent forward with a "Do Pass" recommendation to be heard by the full House of Representatives. Among other things, this bill would allow medical providers with prescribing authority to prescribe the drug Ivermectin to treat COVID-19…
November 11, 2021
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Senator Poolman Announces She Will Not Seek Re-election

1:40 p.m., Nov. 11--Senator Nicole Poolman (R-Dis.7, Bismarck) just announced on the Senate floor that she will not be seeking re-election. As her reasons she noted the following: 1. She wants to focus more on her job as a teacher at Century High School 2. She wants to be more…
November 11, 2021
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Thursday Morning House Actions

11:30 a.m., Nov. 11--The House moved through several bills this morning. All the following were passed and will be heard in the Senate beginning this afternoon: HB 1515 - relating to a one-time income tax credit HCR 3049 - relating to declaring parents as the primary stakeholder over the lives…
November 11, 2021
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Joint Committee Hearing Continues on HB 1511 Regarding Vaccine Mandates

11:15 a.m., Nov 11--The Joint Technical Corrections Committee is meeting this morning to continue to hear testimony on some of the bills that remain to be dealt with at the committee level. Numerous amendments have been offered already. There is still much to be debated. Currently Rep. Rick Becker (R-Dis.…
November 11, 2021
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New Legislative Map to Governor's Desk

Senate approved redistricting plan on Wednesday BISMARCK – Done deal. Almost. The signature of Governor Doug Burgum is all that is needed for a new legislative map to be adopted in North Dakota.   Meeting in special session Wednesday, the North Dakota Senate passed a redistricting map by a 40-7 margin. The House had approved the bill on…
November 10, 2021
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North Dakota to Challenge Vaccine Mandate

Gov. Burgum announced ND is joining 9 other states in lawsuit BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum today joined Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem in announcing that North Dakota has joined nine other states in a lawsuit challenging the Biden administration’s mandate that employers who receive funding through Medicare or Medicaid programs must require their…
November 10, 2021
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Tax Bills Moved Forward

4:35 p.m., Nov. 10--Two tax bills were taken up by the Joint Technical Corrections Committee (JTCC) this afternoon. FIrst, SB 2351 which would eliminate state income tax on Social Security income. That measure was moved forward with a Do Pass recommendation to the full houses. The vote was 15-1. There…
November 10, 2021
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Minot Students Attend Special Session

Our Redeemer's students see government in action More than 20 high school students from Our Redeemer’s Christian School in Minot attended the North Dakota legislative special session at the Capitol on Wed., Nov. 10. Many of the students who made the road trip are in Christine Fandrich’s government class.  “This is everything we’ve been talking about, so I thought…
November 10, 2021
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Senate Narrowly Includes Sub-districts

2:25 p.m., Nov. 10--The North Dakota Senate just completed a vigorous debate about the sub-districting of legislative districts 4 and 9 within the joint redistricting plan. The vote to include the sub-districts only narrowly passed, by a vote of 26-21.
November 10, 2021
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Full House Vote to Accept Joint Redistricting Plan

7:05 a.m., Nov. 10--Yesterday afternoon, the ND House of Representatives voted to accept the redistricting plan presented by the Joint Redistricting Committee. See photo below for the complete vote tally. See Minor Revisions to Redistricting Plan for fuller coverage of this issue.
November 10, 2021
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Full House Vote on Accepting Sub-Districts

7:00 a.m., Nov. 10--Yesterday afternoon, the ND House of Representatives voted to accept the portion of the re-districting plan that will establish sub-districts. See photo below for the complete vote tally. See Minor Revisions to Redistricting Plan for fuller coverage of this issue.
November 10, 2021
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Minor Revisions to Redistricting Plan

Turtle Mountain, Spirit Lake Changes Denied  BISMARCK – The expected perusal through the magnifying glass got underway on opening day of the current legislative special session called by Governor Doug Burgum. While legislators will take up several issues, foremost is the approval of a new legislative alignment due to increased population in…
November 9, 2021
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Verbal Shots Fired in House Discussion

3:10 p.m., Nov. 9--The House just passed the joint redistricting plan 73-18. In the process, Rep. Jeff Hoverson (R-Dis. 3, Minot) asked the House Majority Leader Rep. Chet Pollert whether he thought the redistricting process had been fair. Rep. Pollert replied that he did believe so, mentioning all the work…
November 9, 2021
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Full House Discussion Likely to Push Back Schedule

2:05 p.m., Nov. 9--The current Full House discussion on re-districting is going to push the schedule back significantly. Sub-districting is a hot-button topic, and from what I have been told by some other legislators, there are other hot-button topics that will come up here for discussion as well. Legislators want…
November 9, 2021
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Sub-districts Being Discussed in Full House Chamber

1:45 p.m., Nov. 9--Rep. Terry Jones (R-Dis. 4, New Town) is now arguing against the plan to sub-district districts 4 and 9 in the redistricting plan, HB 1504. He cited an attorney that explained to him that sub-districting based on race according to the Voting Rights Act requires evidence of…
November 9, 2021
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More Testimony on Lifesaving Bill

12:00 p.m., Nov. 9--Rep. Tveit, Sen. Janna Myrdahl, Travis Zablotney, and other citizens (many with backgrounds in the medical field) are skillfully fielding questions asked by the Joint Technical Corrections Committee. Not everyone who presents a bill or speaks in support for (or against) a bill is able to do…
November 9, 2021
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Under-the-radar consequences of redistricting delayed bill

9:15 a.m., Nov. 9--In the leadup to this morning's meeting of the Joint Technical Corrections Committee who will hear testimony on most of the delayed bills that advanced from the Delayed Bills Committees, Rep. Sebastian Ertelt (R-Dis. 26, Lisbon) dropped the following bombshell on The Dakotan. Rep. Ertelt spoke about…
November 9, 2021
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Busy Day for the House Delayed Bills Committee

Only 8 of 20 bills advance to be heard further BISMARCK—The first day of the North Dakota Legislature’s Special Session was jam packed, and perhaps no one had a busier day than the members of the House Delayed Bills Committee. This five-member committee was tasked with hearing approximately 20 bills…
November 8, 2021
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We The People Rally

Legislators Acknowledge the Passion of Rally Supporters It began with a warm welcome by Chris Berg, followed by an opening prayer by Pastor Kurt Chaffee, and a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Blind Joe. Then the crowd of more than 2,000 began to cheer for rally organizer…
November 8, 2021
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Hundreds gather in Capitol building

Update: 3:45 p.m., Nov. 8 -- Excitement turned to confusion turned to discontent. An estimated 700 people waited for more than an hour to hear a press conference that had been announced for the main hall of the Capitol for 3 p.m. They waited in vain, because both the place…
November 8, 2021
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Capitol Rally

Large turnout for rally on capitol grounds  BISMARCK 1:21 P.M. -- A crowd estimated at 2,500 or more filled the lawn in front of the Capitol Building today. The “We The People” rally got underway at noon with an enthusiastic gathering celebrating the theme of the event – We will not Comply, a reaction…
November 8, 2021
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No Election Integrity Bills Advance from House Delayed Bills Committee

1:00 p.m., Nov. 8 -- Neither of Rep. Jeff Magrum's (R-Dis.28, Hazelton) election integrity bills advanced from the House Delayed Bills Committee. There was bipartisan support for killing these bills; neither received a motion from anyone on the committee to advance to the Joint Technical Correction Committee. The reasons given…
November 8, 2021
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Interesting Trend in House Delayed Bills Committee

12:30 p.m., Nov. 8 -- So far, nearly every bill that has failed to advance out of the House Delayed Bills Committee has failed because Republican Majority Leader Chet Pollert (R-Dis. 29, Carrington) has voted along with the two democrats on the committee, Rep. Boschee (D-Dis. 44, Fargo) and Rep.…
November 8, 2021
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House Committee Advances COVID Vaccination Bill to Entire House

11:50 a.m., Nov. 8 -- The House Delayed Bills Committee has just voted to advance Rep. Bob Paulson's (R-Dis. 3) COVID vaccine discrimination bill to be heard by the Joint Technical Corrections Committee (the next step in the process). Rep. Paulson's bill mirrors the bill passed into law by the…
November 8, 2021
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Senate Majority Leader makes opening statement

"Welcome back. This isn't just simple redistricting. We have other things like the American Rescue Plan. We have social freedom issues that have to be dealt with. Our goal is 5 days. Everything has to be done in 5 days. It is possible. Work Saturday? There is that possibility. If…
November 8, 2021
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ND House Delayed Bills Committee About to Begin

10:45 a.m., Nov. 8 -- The ND House Delayed Bills Committee is about to convene in the Pioneer Room of the Capitol building. The committee members have their work cut out for them today, since there are approximately 20 bills for them to consider in the next 2+ hours. There…
November 8, 2021
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Live Updates Beginning Today

Check back here throughout the duration of the legislative special session to read the latest updates from the session, including on-site coverage of the We The People rally on the Capitol Steps Monday, Nov. 8 at noon.
November 8, 2021
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Capitol Steps Rally

**UPDATE: Click Legislative Special Session 2021 to see live updates of the Special Session including on-site coverage of the We The People rally. Huge grassroots rally planned to coincide with first day of special session  Monday, Nov. 8, will bring an uptick in activity around the Capitol building in Bismarck.…
November 4, 2021
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Special Session Raises Eyebrows

Representative Dan Ruby Not A Fan of Sub-Districts “I can support the re-districting bill, even though I don’t like everything about it, but I can accept it. But I won’t support it with the sub-districts,” said Representative Dan Ruby (R-Dis. 38, Minot) in a recent interview with The Dakotan. Now…
November 3, 2021
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Questions Surround Special Session

When the State Legislature reconvenes November 8 in Bismarck, it will do so without knowing how long the session will last. There’s plenty of speculation among lawmakers, ranging from four days to two weeks or more. What is known is that on Friday Governor Doug Burgum called a Special Session…
October 31, 2021
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Legislative Session Uncertainty

Ballots, mandates among items to consider ***UPDATE: After this article was scheduled for publishing, Governor Burgum issued Executive Order 2021-17 calling for a Special Session of the North Dakota Legislature to begin November 8. Keep checking The Dakotan for more updates about the upcoming Special Session. When the state’s legislators…
October 30, 2021
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Legislative Leader on Redistricting

Expectations for upcoming session MINOT – North Dakota’s 47 legislative districts are about to get a new look, a realignment made necessary following the latest census. The state’s districts are required to have reasonably equal populations to ensure that all state citizens are equally represented at the capitol. A special…
October 24, 2021
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Vanishing Districts

Three voting districts in North Dakota are about to disappear. That is, if proposed redistricting that reconfigures voting alignments meets with the approval of legislators. The matter will be taken up when the state’s legislators return to Bismarck November 8 for a maximum four-day session. Can entire voting districts really…
October 24, 2021
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Redistricting Plan Heads to Upcoming Session

ND lawmakers express concerns It has happened before, a reconfiguring of North Dakota’s legislative districts, but there’s always something about shifting political boundaries that draws the ire of legislators on both sides of the isle. The upcoming reconvened session of the ND Legislature, with redistricting foremost on the agenda, is…
October 24, 2021
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