Dem-NPL Reps Stand with Legislature Against Burgum Power Grab, but Disagree on Final Result

 BISMARCK, ND — On Friday, Dem-NPL Legislative Management Committee members voted along with the NDGOP representatives in a unanimous vote to challenge the governor’s purported appointment in House District 8 after the untimely death of David Andahl, which was too late for him to be removed from the ballot. 

House Minority Leader Josh Boschee said: 
 
“It’s essential for us as legislators, regardless of party, to stand up for the proper role of the legislative branch and a fair balance of power in North Dakota. The governor has overstepped his authority, and it’s our duty to unify on those grounds, even if we don’t agree on the ultimate outcome as to who will be seated in District 8. The governor does not get to pick and choose the legislature.” 
 
Dem-NPL Chairwoman Kylie Oversen said:
 
“We agree with the legislature that the governor has no authority to make this appointment, but we also agree with the governor that David Andahl was not qualified to be elected after his untimely death. As the qualified candidate with the next highest number of votes, Kathrin Volochenko should be seated as the House member for District 8. The governor tried to buy the seat in the primary, now he’s just trying to steal it when he should be focused on saving lives and livelihoods after his dismal COVID-19 response. We are consulting attorneys to determine the best path forward.”

###