Kelly Armstrong Elected North Dakota Governor

Kelly Armstrong, a Republican and North Dakota's lone congressman, has been elected as the state's governor, succeeding Doug Burgum who chose not to seek a third term. Armstrong defeated Democratic state Sen. Merrill Piepkorn and independent candidate Michael Coachman with a significant lead, continuing the Republican hold on the governor's office since 1992. Armstrong, 48, previously served as a state senator and as chair of the North Dakota Republican Party, and is set to take office on December 15, 2024. He brings experience from his work in the oil and gas industry and intends to address economic, workforce, agriculture, and energy issues. Despite the victory, concerns have been raised about potential conflicts of interest given Armstrong's investments in the oil industry. He has been endorsed by former President Trump, who praised his defense during Trump's impeachment trials.