Summary

Current Position: Governor of North Dakota
Affiliation: Republican
Former Positions: State Senator from 2012 – 2018, US Representative since 2019

Armstrong was a partner at Reichert Armstrong, with offices in Grand Forks and Dickinson.

Featured Quote: 
The White House is on a censorship mission – pressuring private companies to undermine free speech they don’t agree with. We’re demanding they stop.

Face The Nation: Kelly Armstrong, Turley, Wehle, Reid

OnAir Post: Kelly Armstrong

News

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Media

Press Releases

In the News

Videos

Editorials/Op-eds

About

Source: Government page

Kelly Armstrong 1Congressman Kelly Armstrong is a lifelong, devoted North Dakotan and a tireless advocate for making North Dakota a better place to live and work. With his background in business, his love for the outdoors and his volunteer and public service experience, Kelly is fighting for our North Dakota values in Washington and working to advance positive changes to benefit our state and country.

Early Years

Kelly’s childhood in Dickinson, North Dakota, inspired in him a passion for the outdoors. In the summers, he could be found on Lake Sakakawea and during the fall he was bow hunting in the badlands.

After graduating from Dickinson High School in 1995, Kelly attended the University of North Dakota but continued to grow his roots in Dickinson, returning home in the summers to coach the Dickinson Roughriders American Legion baseball team. Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree from UND in 2001 and a law degree from UND law school in 2003.

It was at UND law school where Kelly met the love of his life, Kjersti. She was part of a law school exchange program with her university in Norway. They married in 2004 and spent the early years of their marriage in Grand Forks, where Kelly began his law career while Kjersti finished her degree.

Kelly and Kjersti later moved back home to Dickinson, and Kelly opened a second office of the law firm. While practicing law, Kelly became known as someone who worked tirelessly for his clients and gained the respect of his counterparts, the judiciary and law enforcement.

Back home in Dickinson, Kelly and Kjersti started their family. Anna was born in 2007 and Eli in 2010.

In 2011, Kelly joined his family’s business, Armstrong Corporation, where he served as vice president. Founded in 1975, this small family business expanded over time to include oil and gas exploration, agricultural operations and investments in local businesses and striving entrepreneurs. The Armstrong family’s commitment to their community was officially recognized with the Roughrider Award (not the big one… there isn’t a painting of the Armstrongs hanging in the North Dakota Capitol) in 2013 for their initiative to employ and provide opportunities for veterans returning from deployment overseas.

Commitment to Community

Kelly’s commitment to family and community is evident in everything he does. A recipient of the North Dakota Bar Association’s Community Service Award, Kelly served as a volunteer fireman for the Dickinson Fire Department from 2005 through 2012, coached girls’ softball and boys’ baseball and is active in charitable works for many local organizations, including his local hospital, university, police association, volunteer fire department, best friends mentoring program, domestic violence rape crisis center, and the Teddy Roosevelt Bully Pulpit Board. He also served as President of the Dickinson Baseball club for ten years and was elected to the North Dakota Dickinson Baseball Hall of Fame in 2017.

Kelly grew his service to the community in 2012, when he was elected to the North Dakota State Senate for District 36. Chairing multiple committees during his service, Kelly spearheaded DUI reform legislation, a $2 billion statewide infrastructure investment and solving the lakebed mineral crisis.

Kelly was elected Chairman of the North Dakota Republican Party in 2015 after seeing firsthand the need for decisive and effective leadership of the party. Kelly led the state party in 2016 to landslide victories for President Donald Trump, Gov. Doug Burgum and North Dakota legislative majorities.

Congressional Service

Washington needs our North Dakota values now more than ever, and no one embodies them more than Kelly. The real changes in Washington are just beginning, and Kelly’s commitment, energy and drive will keep pushing those positive changes forward.

North Dakota’s agricultural and energy industries provide the country and the world with food, oil, gas and electricity. In Congress, Kelly works to protect the livelihood of farmers and ranchers, unleash North Dakota’s full energy potential and ensure North Dakota has a strong voice.

Kelly serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 117th Congress. Kelly was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives representing the entire state of North Dakota in 2018.

Personal

Full Name: Kelly M. Armstrong

Gender: Male

Family: Wife: Kjersti; 2 Children: Anna, Eli

Birth Date: 10/08/1976

Birth Place: ND

Home City: Dickinson, ND

Religion: Lutheran

Source: Vote Smart

Education

Attended, Law, College of William and Mary

JD, University of North Dakota School of Law, 2003

BS, Psychology, University of North Dakota, 2001

Political Experience

Representative, United States House of Representatives, North Dakota, District At-Large, 2019-present

Candidate, United States House of Representatives, North Dakota, District At-Large, 2022

Senator, North Dakota State Senate, District 36, 2013-2018

Professional Experience

Owner, Reichert Armstrong Law Firm, present

Vice President, Armstrong Corporation

Offices

Washington, DC Office

1740 Longworth HOB
Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-2611
Fax: (202) 226-3410

Bismarck Office

U.S. Federal Building
220 E Rosser Ave
Room 228
Bismarck, ND 58501

Phone: (701) 354-6700

Fargo Office

3217 Fiechtner Dr
Suite B
Fargo, ND 58103

Phone: (701) 353-6665
Fax: (844) 315-6438

Contact

Email: Government

Web Links

Politics

Source: none

Election Results

To learn more, go to this wikipedia section in this post.

Finances

Source: Open Secrets

Committees

Congressman Kelly Armstrong serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.

House Energy and Commerce Committee

Congressman Armstrong serves as the Vice Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which has wide jurisdiction over critical issues including healthcare, telecommunications, technology, consumer safety, environment, food and drug safety, energy, and interstate and foreign commerce. Established in 1795, the committee is the oldest continuous standing committee in the House of Representatives.

Congressman Armstrong currently serves on three subcommittees of the Energy and Commerce Committee:

  • Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security
  • Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce
  • Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations

To visit the Energy and Commerce Committee’s website, click here.

House Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government 

Congressman Armstrong also serves on the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government. The subcommittee investigates matters related to the collection, analysis, dissemination, and use of information on U.S. citizens by the Federal Government and seeks to defend Americans’ civil liberties.

To visit the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government’s website, click here.

Caucuses

Congressman Armstrong is a member of several bipartisan congressional caucuses, which are voluntary groups created by House members to pursue common legislative objectives. Caucuses often promote and educate other House members about the particular topic on which the caucus was formed. To view a full list of congressional caucuses, please visit the House Administration Committee’s website here.

Friends of Norway Caucus – Co-Chair

The bipartisan Friends of Norway Caucus works to strengthen the relationship and open dialogue between the United States and Norway on a variety of issues that have both bilateral and global impacts. More than 30 percent of North Dakotans, nearly 200,000 people, have Norwegian ancestry, more than any other state per capita. Only California, Wisconsin, and Minnesota are home to more Norwegian Americans than North Dakota. Congressman Armstrong is a co-chair of this caucus.

Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports – Co-Chair

The bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports promotes the values of sportsmanship, civility, respect, health, safety, fun, and physical activity among players and leaders, including coaches, parents, and officials.

The purpose of this caucus is to educate members of Congress, the media, and the public on the need to restore a child-centered focus in youth sports that will produce immeasurable positive benefits for the well-being and character development among this nation’s youth. Congressman Armstrong is a co-chair of this caucus.

Fire Services Caucus

As a volunteer firefighter from 2005 to 2012, Congressman Armstrong knows the sacrifice and hard work it takes to be a firefighter. That’s why he has joined the Fire Services Caucus. Established in 1987, the Fire Services Caucus was created to educate members of Congress about fire and life safety issues. Since then, it remains a bipartisan coalition where Republicans and Democrats work together in recognizing the valor and dedication of the American fire service. The caucus is about respect and admiration for our nation’s first responders. It provides a forum for members of Congress to learn more about the fire service and the issues and challenges facing our one million firefighters and emergency services personnel.

Firefighters have a proud tradition of protecting communities across our nation. They are the first to respond when disasters strike. In many instances, they are the pillars of our communities. In addition to their official duties, they are involved in community activities including local blood drives, Fourth of July celebrations, civic events and charitable campaigns.

Air Force Caucus

The bipartisan Air Force Caucus highlights the critical importance of the United States Air Force in keeping Americans safe at home and abroad. Air Force Caucus members hold meetings, briefings, and other events detailing the successes of the Air Force enterprise and the challenges our country’s airmen face while operating in the complex warfighting domains of air, space and cyberspace.

Coal Caucus

The bipartisan Coal Caucus is dedicated to discussing issues related to the coal industry and educating other members on the subject. The Caucus holds both member and staff meetings with administration officials, industry experts, and others to update members on the status of the coal industry and to discuss the policies affecting it. The caucus also discusses the future of coal, both in the United States and globally, and the various innovative technologies that will decrease the industry’s environmental impact.

Rural Broadband Caucus

The Rural Broadband Caucus educates its bipartisan roster of members and staff on issues relevant to broadband deployment and access. According to the 2018 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Broadband Report, 24 million Americans lack access to advanced fixed broadband, and nearly one-third of rural Americans lack access to mobile broadband. Rural communities must have adequate broadband infrastructure to attract and retain businesses and human resources, close the homework gap for students and teachers, open innovative and convenient pathways to telemedicine for seniors and providers, and help farmers increase efficiencies in their barns and on their land.

Northern Border Caucus

The Northern Border Caucus is for members who represent districts (or states) that are on or near the U.S.-Canadian border. The bipartisan caucus focuses on policy concerns affecting the economic, cultural, and political partnership between the two countries.

Northern Border Security Caucus

The Northern Border Security Caucus is for members who are concerned about the increased human and drug trafficking, along with the decrease in Border Patrol agents and lack of security, along the U.S.-Canada border.

National Guard and Reserve Caucus

The National Guard and Reserve Caucus pursues legislative and policy initiatives that ensure the National Guard and Reserve components have strong representation on policy, procurement, force structure and utilization within the Department of Defense. The caucus is also committed to improving employment and education opportunities for National Guard and Reserve personnel returning from overseas deployments.

Sportsmen’s Caucus

The Sportsmen’s Caucus works to protect the interests of America’s sportsmen and women and advance sound wildlife management policy. Prompted by the increasing frequency and alarming success of attacks on hunting, fishing, and the shooting sports, the caucus was founded in 1989 to protect the interests of America’s sportsmen and women. Today, the caucus is one of the largest caucuses in Congress with nearly 300 members and nearly all 50 states represented in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

Congressional Cooperative Business Caucus

The Congressional Cooperative Business Caucus creates a venue for elected officials like myself to better understand the important role that cooperatives play in the development of our national and international economy. The bipartisan caucus facilitates briefings to promote greater awareness and understanding of cooperative business issues. The caucus is also a forum for members of Congress to share best practices and work to improve the effectiveness of policy to benefit and promote the cooperative business model nationally and internationally.

Congressional Crop Insurance Caucus

The Congressional Crop Insurance Caucus is dedicated to educating members of Congress and their staff about the importance of the federal crop insurance program administered by USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA). The caucus works with stakeholders to organize educational briefings in order to help members and staff better understand the program and remain apprised of current crop insurance issues.

Congressional Western Caucus

The Congressional Western Caucus is a bipartisan coalition of nearly 70 members of Congress from 35 different states and territories who advocate for rural, western, and resource-based communities.

Congressional General Aviation Caucus

One of the largest, most active caucuses in Congress is dedicated to general aviation. The purpose of the caucus is to inform members of Congress and their staff about the importance of general aviation to our economy and transportation system. The General Aviation Caucus is open to all members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate regardless of party affiliation and committee assignments.

Congressional Postal Caucus

The caucus allows for a productive exchange of information and insight among members and will make sure that Congress is well-equipped to provide successful, permanent solutions to the Postal Service’s current and future issues.

Conservative Climate Caucus

The Conservative Climate Caucus consists of more than 60 members of Congress and focuses on sharing conservative climate solutions that align with Republican principles and are based on an agenda that will make real progress through American innovation and ultimately enhance American prosperity.

Congressional 5G Caucus

The 5G evolution is expected to create 3 million new jobs and boost annual GDP by $500 billion, driven by a projected $275 billion investment from telecom operators. In addition to economic growth, 5G will bring us faster, almost instantaneous, connections. The 5G caucus has bipartisan membership and was formed to support further advancement of this technology.

Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus

The Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus’s mission is to bring greater oversight to federal prisons and address the systemic issues within the BOP system.

American Canadian Economy and Security Caucus

This bipartisan caucus’s mission is to promote and strengthen the vital economic and security bond between the United States and Canada.

New Legislation

Learn more about legislation sponsored and co-sponsored by Congressman Armstrong.

Issues

Source: Government page

Agriculture

Agriculture is the foundation of North Dakota’s economy. It contributes over $10 billion to our economy, as farmers and ranchers across the state work every day to grow the world’s food.

Congress

Congress is empowered as the legislative branch of the federal government by Article I of the U.S. Constitution. Congress is composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Economy

Congressman Armstrong believes that the best way to boost the economy is to ensure that the federal government stays out of the way.

Education

You can never take away a good education, and a good education is the surest sign of future success for individuals.

Energy

North Dakota’s energy economy, along with agriculture, forms the backbone of our state’s economy. According to the U.S.

Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the most important issues in our country right now. Costs keep going up, putting access to quality care out of reach for too many Americans.

Veterans

The men and women of the U.S. armed forces stand in harm’s way throughout the world to protect our country.

More Information

Services

Source: Government page

Wikipedia

Not to be confused with the Canadian writer Kelley Armstrong.
“Governor Armstrong” redirects here. For for the acting governor of Massachusetts, see Samuel Turell Armstrong.

Kelly Michael Armstrong (born October 8, 1976) is an American lawyer and politician serving since 2024 as the 34th governor of North Dakota. A member of the Republican Party, he served from 2019 to 2024 as the U.S. representative for North Dakota’s at-large congressional district.

Born and raised in North Dakota, Armstrong served from 2012 to 2018 as the North Dakota state senator from the 36th district and was chair of the North Dakota Republican Party from 2015 to 2018. On January 23, 2024, he announced he would not seek reelection to the House and would instead run in the 2024 North Dakota gubernatorial election.[1] Armstrong won the Republican primary on June 11, 2024, and defeated Democratic nominee Merrill Piepkorn in the general election.[2]

Early life and education

Kelly Michael Armstrong was born on October 8, 1976.[3][4] Armstrong graduated from Dickinson High School in 1995. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of North Dakota in 2001 and a Juris Doctor from the University of North Dakota School of Law in 2003, after spending his first year of law school at the College of William & Mary.[5] He is a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.

Career

Before his election to Congress, Armstrong was a partner at Reichert Armstrong, with offices in Grand Forks and Dickinson. He was vice president of Armstrong Corp.[6]

Armstrong served from 2013 to 2018 as the North Dakota state senator from the 36th district[7] and chaired the North Dakota Republican Party from 2015 to 2018.[8]

U.S. House of Representatives

Elections

2018

Main article: 2018 United States House of Representatives election in North Dakota

In February 2018, Armstrong announced his candidacy for the United States House of Representatives.[9] He was endorsed by the North Dakota Republican Party at its state party convention in April 2018.[10] Armstrong won the November 6 election with 60.2% of the vote.[11] He resigned his seat in the North Dakota Legislature on November 7 and took office in Congress in January 2019, replacing Kevin Cramer, who was elected to the United States Senate.

2020

Main article: 2020 United States House of Representatives election in North Dakota

Armstrong was reelected with 68.96% of the vote.[12]

2022

Main article: 2022 United States House of Representatives election in North Dakota

Armstrong was reelected with 62.2% of the vote.[13]

Tenure

Armstrong was one of a coalition of seven Republicans who did not support their colleagues’ efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 presidential election on January 6, 2021. These seven signed a letter that, while giving credence to election fraud allegations made by President Donald Trump, said Congress did not have the authority to influence the election’s outcome.[14]

On July 19, 2022, Armstrong and 46 other Republican representatives voted for the Respect for Marriage Act, which would codify the right to same-sex marriage in federal law.[15] Armstrong was nearly censured in a 26–28 vote during a state party meeting for his vote.[16] In September 2022, Armstrong was one of 39 Republicans to vote for the Merger Filing Fee Modernization Act of 2022, an antitrust package that would crack down on corporations for anti-competitive behavior.[17][18] On June 14, 2023, Armstrong voted to table the first censure bill against Adam Schiff, finding the $16 million fine excessive. Former president Donald Trump called for all 20 Republicans who voted against the bill to be “primaried”. Armstrong supported the second attempt a week later when the fine was removed.[19]

Armstrong voted to provide Israel with support following the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.[20][21] In November 2023, he voted against censuring Representative Rashida Tlaib on the grounds of antisemitism after her criticism of Israel.[22] Later that month, he was picked to fill the vacancy on the House Judiciary Committee left by Mike Johnson‘s election as Speaker of the House.[23][24] In December 2023, Armstrong joined 105 House Republicans in voting to expel George Santos after a House ethics committee concluded that he had broken federal law.[25] On December 14, 2024, Armstrong submitted his letter of resignation from Congress effective at midnight that night in order to take office as governor of North Dakota the next day. He added: “It’s been an honor. Time to go home.”[26]

Committee assignments

Caucus memberships

  • Republican Governance Group[27]
  • Friends of Norway Caucus (co-chair)
  • Fire Services Caucus
  • Bipartisan Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Task Force
  • Air Force Caucus
  • Coal Caucus
  • Rural Broadband Caucus
  • Northern Border Caucus
  • Northern Border Security Caucus
  • National Guard and Reserve Caucus
  • Caucus on Youth Sports
  • Sportsmen’s Caucus
  • Republican Study Committee[28]

Governor of North Dakota (2024–present)

2024 gubernatorial election

Main article: 2024 North Dakota gubernatorial election

On January 23, 2024, Armstrong announced he would not run for reelection, instead opting to run for governor of North Dakota after incumbent Doug Burgum announced he would not run for a third term.[29][30] He said he would focus on lower taxes, cutting regulations, and bolstering the state’s workforce.[31]

Armstrong faced Lieutenant Governor Tammy Miller in the primary for the North Dakota Republican Party endorsement. Armstrong and Miller had an aggressive primary battle, with Armstrong the first to release attack ads.[32] He was later criticized for releasing an ad calling Miller “Tall-Tale Tammy” in which he used Artificial Intelligence-generated sources.[33] Armstrong was endorsed by Secretary of State Michael Howe and U.S. senator John Hoeven.[34] Burgum endorsed Miller, saying North Dakota did not need a lawyer in the office.[35] Armstrong won the primary and chose state representative Michelle Strinden as his running mate.[36]

Armstrong defeated Democratic-NPL candidate Merrill Piepkorn and independent Michael Coachman in the general election[37] with 68.3% of the vote. Piepkorn received 26% and Coachman 5.6%.[38]

Tenure

In accordance with the North Dakota Constitution, Armstrong and Strinden took office as governor and lieutenant governor on December 15, 2024. One of Armstrong’s first actions as governor was to fill the vacant seat on the North Dakota Public Service Commission left by his congressional successor, Julie Fedorchak. Armstrong chose commission staffer Jill Kringstad to fill the seat.[39][40][41]

Before the beginning of the legislative session, Armstrong proposed a plan to eliminate property taxes in the state, which was first addressed publicly by the failed measure 4 ballot in 2024.[42] The plan involved using money from the Legacy Fund to cover the cost of primary residence property taxes, more tax credits for seniors and people with disabilities, and a 3% cap on increases to any property tax.[43][44][45][46][47][48] Armstrong testified before the house finance and taxation committee in support of his plan, put into legislation by Representative Mike Nathe.[49] On February 18, 2025, Armstrong signed into law the primary residence portion of the plan introduced by Senator Mark Weber.[50][51] On May 3, Armstrong signed the rest of his plan into law.[52][53]

Armstrong received backlash for ordering flags to be flown at full staff on inauguration day after President Joe Biden ordered all flags at half staff in observance of Jimmy Carter‘s death.[54][55] Armstrong said the flag will return to half staff after the inauguration.[56]

On April 7, 2025, Armstrong and South Dakota governor Larry Rhoden held a meeting with the leadership of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation over concerns about federal funding and economic development.[57] At the meeting, Armstrong told the tribe that when it comes to their issues, “When disruption happens, we need to know.”[58] Later in the month, Armstrong vetoed a controversial bill that would have forced public libraries to ban explicit content.[59][60] Of the veto, he said, “I don’t pretend to know what the next literary masterpiece is going to be, but I know that I want it available in a library.”[61] On June 14, the NDGOP censured Armstrong over the veto.[62][63]

On June 21, 2025, Armstrong declared a state of emergency and began recovery efforts after numerous tornadoes hit the state the previous night.[64] He specifically outlined the severe damage in Enderlin, which killed three people.[65] Armstrong later requested a presidential disaster declaration over the damage.[66][67] In August, Armstrong made another disaster declaration request due to storms that damaged infrastructure across the state. No progress has been made on either request.[68]

Political positions

Abortion

Armstrong supports a ban on abortion.[6] During a debate against Cara Mund in 2022, Armstrong said he supported the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that overturned the right to abortion set forth in Roe v. Wade (1973). He also said he does not support a federal abortion ban.[69]

Education

Despite voicing support for school choice,[70] Armstrong vetoed a bill that would have created special educational savings accounts for private school students,[71] but did sign a bill to lay the groundwork for the state to have charter schools.[72]

Election integrity

Main article: Attempts to overturn the 2020 United States presidential election

Armstrong was one of seven Republicans who did not support their colleagues’ efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 presidential election on January 6, 2021. These seven signed a letter that, while giving credence to election fraud allegations made by President Donald Trump, said Congress did not have the authority to influence the election’s outcome.[14]

Armstrong was generally critical of a ballot measure that would require all ballots to be counted by hand and on paper, saying, “I don’t think you can get it done. And, it turns out, it’s less accurate.”[73]

Federal government

Armstrong defended the Department of Government Efficiency‘s federal funding freezes and firings. He said the media was stoking fear about DOGE and that he had not heard “a ton” of concerns from North Dakotans.[74] Armstrong also defended the Big Beautiful Bill.[75]

Gun rights

Armstrong said he does not support most gun control legislation, and that he would not support a ban on binary triggers like those used in the 2023 shooting of Fargo police officers.[76]

Armstrong is an avid hunter.[77]

Healthcare

On April 20, 2025, Armstrong signed a bill into state law capping the price of insulin at $25 per month.[78]

LGBT rights

In 2022, Armstrong was one of 47 Republicans who went against the party and voted for the Respect for Marriage Act, which codified the right to same-sex marriage into federal law.[79][80]

During a debate with Merrill Piepkorn in 2024, Armstrong said there is a difference between gender identity and biology and that he does not support transgender students playing on sports teams that align with their gender identity. But, he added, “Dress however you want. Be who you want to be. This country is a fantastic, weird place, and I think it is great.”[81]

In 2025, Armstrong signed into law a bill that reinforces North Dakota’s ban on gender-neutral bathrooms in K-12 schools and requires schools to inform parents if they learn a child is identifying as transgender.[82]

Taxes

Besides his property tax reform plan, Armstrong publicly opposed Measure 4 in 2024, which would have eliminated state and local governments’ power to levy property tax.[83] One PAC associated with Armstrong funneled thousands of dollars into anti-measure 4 efforts.[84]

In March 2025, Armstrong vetoed a bill that would have established a prison industries workforce development tax credit, saying, “Any tax policy that creates this type of carve-out must be tied to a significant outcome that benefits the state’s economic interests. This bill does not do that.”[85]

Personal life

Armstrong met his wife Kjersti, a Norwegian citizen, while the two were at University of North Dakota.[86][87] They married in 2004 and have two children. Kjersti became a dual U.S. citizen in 2021.[87]

Armstrong has played, coached, and expressed his love of baseball.[88] His inaugural gala was themed around the sport.[89]

Electoral history

Republican primary results
PartyCandidateVotes%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong 37,054 56.23
RepublicanTom Campbell (withdrawn)17,69226.85
RepublicanTiffany Abentroth5,8778.92
RepublicanPaul Schaffner5,2037.90
RepublicanWrite-Ins750.11
Total votes65,901 100.00
2018 North Dakota’s at-large congressional district election[90]
PartyCandidateVotes%±%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong 193,568 60.20% −8.93%
Democratic–NPLMac Schneider114,37735.57%+11.82%
IndependentCharles Tuttle13,0664.06%N/A
Write-in5210.16%N/A
Total votes321,532 100.00%
Republican hold
2020 North Dakota’s at-large congressional district election[91]
PartyCandidateVotes%±%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong (incumbent) 245,229 68.96% +8.76%
Democratic–NPLZach Raknerud97,97027.55%−8.02%
LibertarianSteven Peterson12,0243.38%N/A
Write-in3750.11%-0.05%
Total votes355,598 100.00%
Republican hold
2022 North Dakota’s at-large congressional district election[92]
PartyCandidateVotes%±%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong (incumbent) 148,399 62.20% –6.76
IndependentCara Mund89,64437.57%N/A
Write-in5430.23%+0.12
Total votes238,586 100.00%
Republican hold
2024 North Dakota Republican gubernatorial primary election[93]
PartyCandidateVotes%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong
Michelle Strinden 		67,704 73.2%
RepublicanTammy Miller
Josh Teigen		24,78426.8%
Total votes92,488 100.00
2024 North Dakota gubernatorial election[94]
PartyCandidateVotes%±%
RepublicanKelly Armstrong
Michelle Strinden 		247,056 68.26% +2.42%
Democratic–NPLMerrill Piepkorn
Patrick Hart		94,04325.98%+0.60%
IndependentMichael Coachman
Lydia Gessele		20,3225.61%N/A
Write-in5300.15%-4.75%
Total votes361,951 100.00% N/A
Republican hold

References

  1. ^ Nazzaro, Miranda (January 23, 2024). “North Dakota lawmaker running for governor”. The Hill. Retrieved January 23, 2024.
  2. ^ “North Dakota Governor Primary Election Results”. The New York Times. June 11, 2024. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved October 27, 2024.
  3. ^ “Kelly Armstrong’s Biography”. Project Vote Smart. Retrieved March 7, 2018.
  4. ^ “North Dakota New Members 2019”. The Hill. November 15, 2018.
  5. ^ Grandstrand, Katherine (December 20, 2012). “District 36 representation: All Kelly Armstrong wanted was to get away, but Dickinson is home”. The Dickinson Press. Archived from the original on June 22, 2018. Retrieved March 7, 2018.
  6. ^ a b Steurer, Mary (April 24, 2024). “Armstrong, Miller debate shows difference of personality but not policy • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor.
  7. ^ “Senator Kelly M. Armstrong”. Bismarck, North Dakota: North Dakota Legislature. Retrieved March 7, 2018.
  8. ^ “Sen. Kelly Armstrong of Dickinson elected chair of ND Republican Party”. Grand Forks Herald. Forum News Service. June 6, 2015. Archived from the original on June 22, 2018. Retrieved March 7, 2018.
  9. ^ Dura, Jack (February 22, 2018). “Armstrong joins packed House race”. The Clarion-Ledger.
  10. ^ Monk, Jim (April 7, 2018). “Armstrong wins GOP House endorsement”. The Mighty 790 KFGO. Archived from the original on November 8, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018.
  11. ^ Wasserman, David; Flinn, Ally (November 7, 2018). “2018 House Popular Vote Tracker”. Cook Political Report. Retrieved February 15, 2019.
  12. ^ “OFFICIAL (WITHOUT RECOUNTS) 2020 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS: Representative in Congress”. North Dakota Election Officials. Retrieved November 17, 2020.
  13. ^ “Unofficial 2022 General Election Results”. North Dakota Secretary of State. November 8, 2022. Retrieved November 13, 2022.
  14. ^ a b Budryk, Zack (January 3, 2021). “Coalition of 7 conservative House Republicans says they won’t challenge election results”. The Hill. Retrieved January 3, 2021.
  15. ^ Schnell, Mychael (July 19, 2022). “These are the 47 House Republicans who voted for a bill protecting marriage equality”. The Hill. Retrieved July 25, 2022.
  16. ^ “Port: NDGOP rids itself of code of conduct, nearly censures Rep. Kelly Armstrong”. InForum. October 16, 2023. Retrieved February 1, 2024.
  17. ^ “House passes antitrust bill that hikes M&A fees as larger efforts targeting tech have stalled”. CNBC. September 29, 2022.
  18. ^ “H.R. 3843 (117th): Merger Filing Fee Modernization Act of 2022 — House Vote #460 — Sep 29, 2022”. GovTrack.us.
  19. ^ Baumgarten, April (June 20, 2023). “Trump calls for North Dakota’s Kelly Armstrong to ‘immediately be primaried’“. Inforum. Retrieved January 25, 2024.
  20. ^ Demirjian, Karoun (October 25, 2023). “House Declares Solidarity With Israel in First Legislation Under New Speaker”. The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
  21. ^ Washington, U. S. Capitol Room H154; p:225-7000, DC 20515-6601 (October 25, 2023). “Roll Call 528 Roll Call 528, Bill Number: H. Res. 771, 118th Congress, 1st Session”. Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives. Retrieved October 30, 2023.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  22. ^ Gick, Justin (November 5, 2023). “Rep. Kelly Armstrong one of 23 Republicans voting not to censure Rep. Tlaib on Israel comments”. www.kfyrtv.com.
  23. ^ Janke, Ryan. “Armstrong to fill seat vacated by new U.S. Speaker of the House, announces re-election”.
  24. ^ “Rep. Kelly Armstrong Recommended To Take Speaker Johnson’s Judiciary Seat”. November 14, 2023.
  25. ^ Sweeney, Pat. “Armstrong votes for, Fischbach votes against ousting Santos”.
  26. ^ Skurzewski, Joe. ““Time to go home”: Kelly Armstrong submits resignation from Congress”. KFYR. Retrieved December 14, 2024.
  27. ^ “Homepage of Republican Governance Group”. Republican Governance Group. December 14, 2019.
  28. ^ “Membership”. Republican Study Committee. December 6, 2017. Archived from the original on April 6, 2021. Retrieved March 28, 2021.
  29. ^ “Kelly Armstrong will run for North Dakota governor, giving up state’s sole House seat”. POLITICO. January 23, 2024. Retrieved February 1, 2024.
  30. ^ “Kelly Armstrong, North Dakota’s lone congressman, runs for governor”. San Diego Union-Tribune. January 23, 2024. Retrieved February 1, 2024.
  31. ^ “Kelly Armstrong highlights campaign themes at Fargo kickoff event”. InForum. January 26, 2024. Retrieved February 1, 2024.
  32. ^ “Port: Here’s a preview of the mud that’s about to be slung in North Dakota’s gubernatorial primary”. InForum. March 18, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  33. ^ “Port: Armstrong rips ‘Tall Tale’ Tammy Miller; her campaign says that’s ‘a whole lot of B.S.’“. InForum. March 20, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  34. ^ Gick, Justin (April 2, 2024). “Hoeven endorses Armstrong for governor”. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  35. ^ “Burgum suggests Armstrong isn’t the right choice for governor; Armstrong responds”. March 11, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  36. ^ “Endorsed for governor by North Dakota GOP, Kelly Armstrong taps Fargo’s Michelle Strinden as running mate”. InForum. April 6, 2024. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  37. ^ Haney, Don. “Piepkorn makes campaign for governor official”. The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  38. ^ “North Dakota Governor Election 2024 Live Results: Kelly Armstrong Wins”. www.nbcnews.com. November 14, 2024. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  39. ^ “Armstrong appoints Jill Kringstad to succeed Fedorchak on North Dakota Public Service Commission | North Dakota Office of the Governor”. www.governor.nd.gov. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  40. ^ Pelaez, Juliana (January 6, 2025). “Gov. Kelly Armstrong Announces Jill Kringstad As New Public Service Commissioner”. KVRR Local News. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  41. ^ Anthony, Michael (January 6, 2025). “Jill Kringstad appointed to serve on Public Service Commission”. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  42. ^ “North Dakota Initiated Measure 4, Prohibit Taxes on Assessed Value of Real Property Initiative (2024)”. Ballotpedia. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  43. ^ “North Dakota’s new governor eyes ‘path to zero’ property tax on people’s homes. Can it be done?”. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  44. ^ Williams, Austin (January 14, 2025). “North Dakota’s governor wants to eliminate property taxes; here’s how it could work”. FOX TV Digital Team. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  45. ^ Achterling, Michael; Beach, Jeff (January 7, 2025). “North Dakota governor unveils bold property tax plan in first State of the State address • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  46. ^ “Armstrong outlines property tax relief and reform plan in 2025 State of the State Address to Legislature | North Dakota Office of the Governor”. www.governor.nd.gov. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  47. ^ “North Dakota’s new governor eyes ‘path to zero’ property tax on people’s homes. Can it be done?”. AP News. January 14, 2025. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  48. ^ Seamons, Kate (January 14, 2025). “North Dakota Governor Proposes Ending Property Taxes”. Newser. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  49. ^ “House committee looking at property tax relief and reform”. Prairie Public. January 15, 2025. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  50. ^ “Lawmakers receive committee assignments for 2025 legislative session • North Dakota Monitor”.
  51. ^ “Armstrong signs first bill of 2025 legislative session, expanding eligibility for primary residence tax credit”. North Dakota Office of the Governor.
  52. ^ Thompson, Will. “Gov. Armstrong signs property tax relief bill”. The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  53. ^ “UPDATED: Armstrong signs historic property tax relief and reform package for North Dakota homeowners”. North Dakota Office of the Governor. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  54. ^ James, Hannah (January 14, 2025). “Flag protocol debate intensifies as Inauguration Day meets Jimmy Carter mourning period”. WEAR. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  55. ^ “Port: Armstrong acquiescing to Trump’s flag edict just feels un-American”. InForum. January 14, 2025. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  56. ^ “North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong orders flags to fly at full-staff for Trump’s inauguration”. InForum. January 14, 2025. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  57. ^ Anthony, Michael (April 7, 2025). “Dakota Governors meet with Standing Rock Sioux Tribe”. www.kfyrtv.com.
  58. ^ Steurer, Mary (April 7, 2025). “Standing Rock leaders raise concerns about federal funding in meeting with ND, SD governors • North Dakota Monitor”.
  59. ^ “North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong vetoes controversial library bill”. InForum. April 23, 2025.
  60. ^ Coursey, Grant (April 23, 2025). “North Dakota governor vetoes ESA bill, saying it ‘falls short’ of true school choice”. The Bismarck Tribune.
  61. ^ “North Dakota governor vetoes controversial library content bill”. News From The States.
  62. ^ ideas, Rob Port Comments Share Share this article Opinion Opinion Advocates for; Facts, Draws Conclusions Based on the Interpretation of; this?, data The Trust Project What is (June 18, 2025). “Plain Talk: ‘I’m a North Dakotan first. I’m the governor second and a Republican third.’“. Grand Forks Herald. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  63. ^ ideas, Rob Port Comments Share Share this article Opinion Opinion Advocates for; Facts, Draws Conclusions Based on the Interpretation of; this?, data The Trust Project What is (June 14, 2025). “Port: Gov. Armstrong censured over book ban veto as MAGA populists take control of NDGOP”. InForum. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  64. ^ Ostler, Gabriel (June 21, 2025). “Gov. Armstrong Declares Statewide Disaster”. KVRR Local News. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  65. ^ Staff, KFYR (June 21, 2025). “Gov. Armstrong declares disaster for tornado damage, extends sympathy to victims’ families”. www.kfyrtv.com. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  66. ^ “Gov. Armstrong requests presidential disaster declaration for June storms • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  67. ^ Staff, KFYR (July 21, 2025). “Governor Armstrong requests presidential disaster declaration for storm damage from tornadoes, straight-line winds”. www.kfyrtv.com. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  68. ^ https://northdakotamonitor.com/briefs/gov-armstrong-asks-trump-administration-for-help-recovering-from-august-storms/
  69. ^ “Armstrong, Mund clash on abortion, campaign finance in fiery final debate”. InForum. October 11, 2022. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  70. ^ “Armstrong vetoes North Dakota private school voucher bill, but signals support for competing bill • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  71. ^ Anthony, Michael (April 23, 2025). “Armstrong vetoes library, ESA bills”. www.kfyrtv.com.
  72. ^ Anthony, Michael (April 23, 2025). “North Dakota establishes framework for charter schools”. www.kfyrtv.com. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  73. ^ Achterling, Michael (March 12, 2024). “Armstrong says experience is a strength in bid to be North Dakota’s next governor • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  74. ^ “Republican governors defend DOGE even as they face looming deficits”. POLITICO. February 22, 2025.
  75. ^ Tom, Michelle (July 3, 2025). “Governor Armstrong speaks on impact of ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ on ND”. www.kfyrtv.com. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  76. ^ Achterling, Michael (October 8, 2024). “Armstrong, Piepkorn differ on gun laws during second gubernatorial debate • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  77. ^ “Habitat and Hunting Access Summit Recording Available”. The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  78. ^ Shores, Elizabeth (April 20, 2025). “Gov. Armstrong signs bill capping the price of insulin at $25 a month”. www.kfyrtv.com.
  79. ^ “These are the 47 House Republicans who voted for a bill protecting marriage equality”. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  80. ^ “Port: Republican Congressman Armstrong says he’ll vote to codify federal recognition of same-sex marriage”. InForum. July 19, 2022. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  81. ^ “Candidates clash over abortion, gun rights, transgender issues in 2nd North Dakota governor’s debate”. InForum. October 8, 2024. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  82. ^ Steurer, Mary (May 1, 2025). “North Dakota governor signs bill to enforce one-gender bathroom policy for K-12 schools • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved August 2, 2025.
  83. ^ Achterling, Michael (October 4, 2024). “Armstrong opposes Measure 4 but says property tax reform should be priority • North Dakota Monitor”. North Dakota Monitor. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  84. ^ “Port: PAC affiliated with Kelly Armstrong comes out swinging against Measure 4”. InForum. October 16, 2024. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  85. ^ “North Dakota House votes to sustain Gov. Kelly Armstrong’s 1st veto”. InForum. April 4, 2025.
  86. ^ “Kjersti Armstrong — Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library”. TRPresLibrary. Retrieved February 16, 2025.
  87. ^ a b “Wife of North Dakota congressman becomes a US citizen”. Dickinson Press. September 14, 2021. Retrieved January 24, 2025.
  88. ^ Horn, Andrew (August 14, 2018). “Behind the Candidate: Kelly Armstrong”. www.kfyrtv.com.
  89. ^ “Governor Armstrong swings into a new era for North Dakota with Inaugural Ball”. January 19, 2025.
  90. ^ Johnson, Cheryl L. (February 28, 2019). “Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 6, 2018”. Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives. Retrieved April 27, 2019.
  91. ^ “Statewide Election Results”. North Dakota Secretary of State. November 12, 2020.
  92. ^ “Official 2022 General Election Results”. North Dakota Secretary of State. November 8, 2022. Retrieved January 26, 2024.
  93. ^ “2024 Republican Governor primary election Results”. Associated Press News. Retrieved July 2, 2024.
  94. ^ “North Dakota Secretary of State”. results.sos.nd.gov.
North Dakota Senate
Preceded by

 Member from the 36th district
2012–2018		Succeeded by

Party political offices
Preceded by

Robert Harms
 Chair of the North Dakota Republican Party
2015–2018		Succeeded by

Preceded by

 Republican nominee for Governor of North Dakota
2024		Most recent
U.S. House of Representatives
Preceded by

 Member from North Dakota’s at-large congressional district
2019–2024		Succeeded by

Political offices
Preceded by

Doug Burgum
 Governor of North Dakota
2024–present		Incumbent
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded by

as Vice President

Order of precedence of the United States
Within North Dakota		Succeeded by

Mayor of city
in which event is held
Succeeded by

Otherwise Mike Johnson

as Speaker of the House

Preceded by

as Governor of Colorado

Order of precedence of the United States
Outside North Dakota		Succeeded by

as Governor of South Dakota


source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelly_Armstrong