(ND Monitor) – North Dakota Republican lawmakers and legislative candidates on Wednesday accused Gov. Kelly Armstrong of attempting to unlawfully influence the state Legislature by donating to campaigns of handpicked candidates.
The conservative Republicans lambasted the Republican governor in a press conference at the Capitol outside of Armstrong’s office. Sen. Jeff Magrum, R-Hazelton, alleged that Armstrong’s donations violate the state constitution under the section that outlines bribery and quid pro quo.
“Our appeal is to the public, speak with your vote,” Magrum said. “Speak against the unlawful, unethical and immoral action by the governor and reject his candidates.”
Armstrong has donated roughly $200,000 to the campaigns for about 20 Republicans who are facing primary challenges in legislative and statewide races, campaign finance records show. Recent filings show an additional nearly $75,000 in in-kind contributions as well. Armstrong said he raised the funds from donors inside and outside of the state and told them the funds were going toward Republican candidates that he supports.
He added the donations were given with no assurances or strings attached, only that candidates show up and do the jobs that they were elected to do. The donations are legal for him to make, Armstrong said.
Former Gov. Doug Burgum faced similar criticism in 2022 for his campaign spending in some legislative races.
ND Monitor
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