An Air Force veteran and former statewide candidate is running for governor of North Dakota.
Michael Coachman of Larimore announced the independence movement on Tuesday. He previously ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2020, secretary of state in 2018, and lieutenant governor in 2016 and 2012.
Republican Gov. Doug Burgum is not seeking a third term. In 2021, Coachman launched an unsuccessful effort to recall Burgum and then-Lieutenant Governor Brent Sanford.
Former North Dakota Sen. Tom Campbell launches bid for the state’s only U.S. House seat
“As governor, I will refocus North Dakota’s political goals to become a state focused on restoring personal freedom in all aspects of North Dakotans’ lives, families, and businesses,” Coachman said in a statement. ” he said.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum spoke to Fox News Digital inside the spin room after the first Republican presidential debate. (Joseph A. Wolfthorne/Fox News Digital)
Mr. Coachman received about 10% of the statewide vote against Mr. Burgum in the 2020 Republican gubernatorial primary.
North Dakota’s only lawmaker, Republican Rep. Kelly Armstrong, announced her candidacy for governor last month. Guard Democrat Travis Hipsher is also running.
North Dakota’s next governor is scheduled to take office in mid-December, weeks before the biennial Legislature convenes. Voters will exceed term limits in 2022, meaning future governors cannot be elected more than twice.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
A Republican has held the governorship since 1992, but a Democrat has not won a statewide election since 2012.
