Port: Voters seem to love Gov. Armstrong, even if his political party doesn't
inforum.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 5:57:26 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Public Opinion & Polling, Republican Party Politics, Political Endorsements
MINOT -- The North Dakota News Cooperative's recent poll shows that, of North Dakota's top elected officials, Gov. Kelly Armstrong is the most popular with a 66% approval rating.
This is terrible news for the people in charge of the North Dakota Republican Party, which is an odd thing to write, I know, given that Armstrong is a Republican. I'll explain more in a moment.
All of the Republicans who hold the state's top offices are popular. U.S. Sens. John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer come in at 63% and 59%, respectively. U.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak is a bit below those marks, at 54%, and while the News Cooperative reported this as a "slip" in her popularity (she earned over 69% of the vote last year), I think it has more to do with her newbie status than anything else.
Before running for the House, Fedorchak was a statewide elected official, albeit for the relatively obscure Public Service Commission. In the polling, Fedorchak's disapproval number (27%) is in line with Armstrong's (26%) and significantly lower than Hoeven's or Cramer's (31% and 37%, respectively). What's inflated is the number of respondents who say they're unsure about her. Once some of those folks come down off the fence, I suspect Fedorchak will score the same higher marks as Armstrong, Hoeven, etc.
Cramer's numbers were also reported as a "slip" (he received more than 66% of the vote last year), but this is the level he's typically at. He's undoubtedly the most provocative member of our federal delegation. While that earns him some disapproval between elections, one statewide vote after another has shown that those people come home to his ticket rather than voting for a Democrat.
But back to Armstrong's numbers. They're the most intriguing because they demonstrate just how wildly out of touch the far-right, populist faction of culture warrior Republicans who have taken over the NDGOP are with the majority of North Dakota voters.
In June, the NDGOP elected a new chairman, Matthew Simon, who has a long history of opposing mainstream Republicans in favor of far-right populists. Simon opposed the re-election of Doug Burgum as governor in 2020. He also opposed Burgum's appointment to a cabinet position in President Donald Trump's administration. After being elected to chairman, Simon and the party's newly elected state committee voted to censure Armstrong. Twice.
One censure was for Armstrong's property tax plan (which, I would point out, passed with all but 4 of the most extreme Republican lawmakers in the Legislature voting for it). The other censure was for Armstrong's veto of a book ban bill championed by culture warriors terrified that North Dakota's children might find out the LGBTQ community exists.
In the previous political cycle, this same faction of angry populists nearly succeeded in censuring Armstrong for his vote in Congress to codify same-sex marriage in federal law.
When I reached Armstrong for comment about this year's censures, his response was hilariously blunt: "I don't care." It sure seems like the voters don't care, either.
"I just view it this way: I'm a North Dakotan first. I'm the governor second and a Republican third," Armstrong went on to say about the censures during an appearance on the Plain Talk podcast.
The populist faction of the NDGOP disdains Armstrong, yet he has never lost an election in North Dakota. He earned more than 68% of the vote in November, and this survey shows his approval currently stands at 66%.
Before anyone starts moaning about the "mainstream media" and polling biased towards Democrats and centrists, consider that Trump's approval was at 64% in this same survey.
Remember that the people in charge of the NDGOP -- Mr. Simon and his cohort of malcontents, who presume to stand in judgment of North Dakota's popular and popularly elected governor -- are the product of tiny, heavily manipulated elections in the bowels of the NDGOP. Simon owes his chairmanship of the party to the votes of dozens of district chairs who themselves were elected to their positions at local conventions that are frequently run corruptly to ensure a specific outcome.
That faction likes to bray about "we the people" -- they're not so much conservatives as populist reactionaries -- and yet to the degree they have any political clout at all, it comes from the proverbial "smoky back rooms."
Armstrong, meanwhile, received 247,056 votes in the last election, and clearly, not many North Dakotans regret that decision. By the way, Fedorchak received more votes than any other candidate in a contested race on last year's general election ballot, yet, in another sign of how irrelevant the party has become, the NDGOP denied her its endorsement at the party's state convention that spring.
The governor himself called out this reliance on "smoky back rooms" during his Plain Talk interview. "I mean, one of the problems I think you're running into in this is ... this was always 'We hate the smoke-filled back room,' right? That was always the argument forever. That's not really true. What they want to do is control the smoke-filled back room," he said, also accusing this faction of being obsessed with "microniche" issues.
"I don't think they spend near enough time talking about how to win elections, which is what people rely on the party for," he said. In that same interview, Armstrong wouldn't commit to seeking the NDGOP's convention endorsement when he's up for re-election.
The NDGOP hasn't had many problems winning elections in North Dakota over the last three decades, but if the party continues to win going forward, it will be due to solid, traditionally conservative candidates like Armstrong, rather than the current leadership of the party.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent polling data reflecting Governor Kelly Armstrong's substantial approval rating in North Dakota serves as a striking focal point for discussions surrounding the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party. With a 66% approval rating, Armstrong stands out not only among his fellow Republicans but also as a glaring indication of the disconnect between the party's mainstream voter base and its far-right faction, which has increasingly dominated the party's leadership. This divergence raises essential questions about the future of Republican politics, the role of extremism in American governance, and the enduring struggle for moderation and inclusion within a polarized political landscape.
Historically, the North Dakota Republican Party has prided itself on a moderate approach that has catered to a broad coalition of voters, which included ranchers, farmers, and rural working-class individuals. This pragmatic approach has often translated into policies that resonate with the state’s needs, such as infrastructure development, agricultural support, and social services. However, the rise of a far-right populist faction, exemplified by the election of Matthew Simon as the new party chairman, marks a pivotal shift. Simon's vocal opposition to moderate incumbents and his censure of Armstrong for supporting property tax reforms and vetoing book bans signal a broader trend where ideological purity, rather than practical governance, is prioritized. This shift mirrors a national trend within the GOP, where centrism is increasingly sidelined in favor of hardline stances that often alienate mainstream voters.
This internal rift within the North Dakota GOP is not merely a political squabble; it is emblematic of a larger societal struggle. The far-right’s focus on culture war issues, such as book bans and anti-LGBTQ legislation, distracts from pressing socioeconomic challenges that many North Dakotans face, including rural poverty, healthcare access, and education. Armstrong's willingness to veto legislation that would further marginalize LGBTQ youth underscores a recognition of these broader issues. This disconnect between the priorities of the party's leadership and the actual needs of the constituents showcases a critical opportunity for advocates of social justice and equity to engage with disenchanted voters. By framing these discussions around the real-life impact of such policies, there is potential to draw in supporters from across the political spectrum who value inclusivity and practical governance.
Moreover, Armstrong's position highlights the importance of voter engagement and the potential for grassroots organizing. The high approval ratings he enjoys suggest that a significant portion of the electorate appreciates a more moderate approach to governance, one that does not shy away from progressive social values while still addressing the practical needs of the community. For those advocating for social justice, it is crucial to leverage these insights to build coalitions that can challenge the far-right narrative. By connecting issues of economic inequality with the fight for civil rights, advocates can create a robust platform that resonates with a diverse voter base, reminding citizens that their interests are often not represented by the loudest voices in the political arena.
In conclusion, the political landscape in North Dakota serves as a microcosm of a national phenomenon — the struggle between moderation and extremism within political parties. Governor Armstrong’s popularity amidst a faction of his own party that is increasingly out of touch with mainstream voters presents an opportunity for advocates of social change to engage in dialogue that emphasizes common ground and shared values. By addressing the real and pressing needs of the community rather than allowing divisive culture wars to dominate the conversation, there is potential to cultivate a political environment where inclusivity, equity, and pragmatic governance are prioritized. As history has shown, movements for change often arise from the most unexpected places; North Dakota may just be the next battleground for a more compassionate and just political future.
The recent polling data that demonstrates North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong’s popularity, despite the backlash from the far-right faction of the North Dakota Republican Party, invites a deeper examination of the political landscape and the potential for a more progressive narrative to emerge. This situation illustrates not only a fracture within the Republican Party but also a moment of opportunity for those advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society. The historical context of North Dakota’s political evolution reveals that the state has often oscillated between conservative policies and a populace that, at times, shows a willingness to support moderate positions. Given this backdrop, it is essential to consider how we, as engaged citizens, can leverage these dynamics for broader progressive goals.
Historically, North Dakota has been a battleground for various political ideologies. The state’s political climate has shifted over the decades, from the Progressive Era of the early 20th century—characterized by significant reforms in labor rights and public ownership—to the more recent emergence of a staunchly conservative faction within the Republican Party. This ongoing tension presents an opportunity for dialogue about the values that truly resonate with the people of North Dakota. The current discontent among mainstream Republicans with their own party leadership could be a moment for those advocating for social justice, environmental policies, and economic equity to engage in meaningful conversations with constituents who may feel alienated by the extreme positions taken by their party.
The polling data showing Armstrong's 66% approval rating suggests a disconnect between grassroots voter sentiment and the leadership of the North Dakota GOP, particularly under the influence of more extreme factions. This presents an opening for advocacy groups and individuals to raise awareness about the importance of centrist policies that align more closely with the values of the average North Dakotan. For instance, advocating for progressive tax policies, affordable healthcare, and educational reform could resonate with a public that is increasingly disenchanted with the radical right’s culture wars. By framing these issues as common-sense solutions that benefit all North Dakotans, activists can create a compelling narrative that challenges the status quo.
Moreover, the recent actions of the NDGOP to censure Armstrong for his moderate stances on property tax reform and LGBTQ rights highlight the internal strife within the party, which can be used to pivot discussions toward inclusivity and civil rights. Engaging with local communities through town halls and grassroots organizing can illuminate the fact that the majority of people are not in favor of extreme positions that infringe upon the rights of marginalized groups. By emphasizing the importance of representation and equity, advocates can encourage voters to hold their elected officials accountable to the broader values of compassion and community rather than the narrow agendas of the far-right.
In light of these developments, what can be done? First, Americans, particularly those in North Dakota, should actively participate in local governance and political discourse. This includes attending town hall meetings, voting in local elections, and supporting candidates who prioritize a more inclusive platform. Furthermore, building coalitions with like-minded organizations can amplify the message and create a stronger front against the extreme factions within the political landscape. Additionally, leveraging social media and other communication platforms to disseminate information about the successes of moderate policies can galvanize public support and shift the narrative in a more progressive direction.
In conclusion, the situation surrounding Governor Armstrong's popularity amidst a fractious Republican Party offers a crucial moment for reflection and action. By understanding the historical context and current dynamics at play, engaged citizens can seize the opportunity to advocate for policies that promote equity and justice, rather than division. It is essential to foster a political environment in which the voices of everyday North Dakotans are heard and valued, creating a space where inclusivity and progress can flourish in the face of adversity.
**Actions We Can Take in Response to North Dakota Politics**
The recent polling data highlighting the popularity of Governor Kelly Armstrong, despite opposition from the far-right faction of the North Dakota Republican Party, opens up various avenues for civic engagement and advocacy. Here are some actionable steps and strategies we can take to influence the political landscape in North Dakota.
### 1. **Petition Support and Creation** - **Issue Focus**: Start or support petitions that advocate for inclusive policies, especially regarding LGBTQ rights and education. For instance, create a petition opposing book bans and advocating for the inclusion of diverse topics in school curricula. - **Example Petition**: Use platforms like Change.org or Care2 to create or sign petitions that call for the protection of LGBTQ rights and educational materials. Look for existing petitions such as “Support LGBTQ+ Education in North Dakota Schools” and share them within your networks.
### 2. **Contact Elected Officials** - **Who to Write To**: Reach out to both state and federal representatives who may be swayed by public opinion and advocacy. - **Governor Kelly Armstrong** - Email: [Email not provided in article, check official state website] - Address: 600 E Boulevard Ave Dept 105, Bismarck, ND 58505 - **U.S. Senators** - John Hoeven - Email: [Email not provided in article, check official state website] - Address: 2200 H Senate Hart Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - Kevin Cramer - Email: [Email not provided in article, check official state website] - Address: 3200 Senate Russell Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **U.S. Representative Julie Fedorchak** - Email: [Email not provided in article, check official state website] - Address: 1000 E. Divide Ave, Suite 108, Bismarck, ND 58501 - **What to Say**: - Clearly express your support for Governor Armstrong's decisions regarding property tax plans and his veto of the book ban bill. Advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and reject attempts to censor educational materials.
### 3. **Engage in Local Advocacy Groups** - **Join or Support Local Organizations**: Find groups that advocate for social justice, education, and LGBTQ rights in North Dakota. Organizations like the ACLU of North Dakota or local chapters of national LGBTQ advocacy groups can provide avenues for involvement. - **Volunteer or Attend Events**: Participate in community discussions, rallies, or workshops that focus on civic engagement and advocacy for underrepresented groups.
### 4. **Utilize Social Media Platforms** - **Share Information**: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about the issues at stake. Share articles, facts, and personal stories that highlight the importance of inclusive and fair policies. - **Create a Movement**: Start a hashtag campaign that draws attention to the need for policies that protect educational integrity and inclusivity in North Dakota schools.
### 5. **Organize Community Forums** - **Host Discussions**: Organize local forums or panels where community members can discuss the implications of the current political climate, focusing on inclusion and representation. - **Invite Speakers**: Bring in local leaders, educators, and activists to share their perspectives on the importance of supporting inclusive policies and how to effectively advocate for change.
### 6. **Stay Informed and Educated** - **Follow Local News and Politics**: Keep abreast of local political developments and understand the actions of state representatives. This knowledge will empower you to engage more effectively. - **Educate Yourself and Others**: Read books and articles that explore social justice, LGBTQ rights, and educational policy to build a well-rounded understanding of the issues.
### Conclusion By actively participating in the political process, whether through petitions, contacting officials, joining advocacy groups, or engaging in community discussions, we can collectively influence the direction of North Dakota's policies. It is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in advocating for the rights and representation of all community members, ensuring that the political landscape reflects the values of inclusivity and equality.