In what observers are calling an “unprecedented” move, Michael Achterling from the ND Monitor reports that North Dakota’s statewide Republican incumbents confirmed Monday that they will bypass the upcoming state convention to focus on nomination through the June primary.
Sources say this exodus from the endorsement process shows a deepening rift within the NDGOP, as elected officials maintain distance from the party’s convention delegates. In one of his first actions as Party Chair, Matthew Simon issued two censures to Governor Armstrong last year, which is likely why the delegates did not ensure Armstrong would attend. There also has been controversy surrounding speakers for the event. The convention will lose out financially, as candidates must donate several thousand dollars to seek the nomination.
Julie Fedorchak, who won her 2024 election despite not receiving the NDGOP endorsement, will not be seeking the convention’s endorsement. Similarly, Governor Armstrong (though not on the ballot), A.G. Drew Wrigley, Secretary of State Michael Howe, Ag. Commissioner Doug Goehring, Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus, and Superintendent Levi Bachmeier have all confirmed they will be skipping the convention, which takes place March 28-29 in Minot.
Bob Harms, a former NDGOP state party chair, said this year will be the first time that no statewide incumbent Republicans have sought the party’s endorsement at its state convention in at least 40 years.
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