Staff ReportsThe decision by former President Donald Trump to appoint North Dakota’s Governor Doug Burgum to head the Interior Department has set the stage for some intriguing developments in Washington. Known for his business acumen and ability to disrupt the political status quo, Burgum may just be the guy to shake things up at a department that desperately needs a good dose of common sense and fiscal responsibility. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this former software executive turned governor tick.
Burgum, hailing from the tiny town of Arthur, North Dakota—population a mere 328—brings a wealth of experience from the private sector to the public arena. After earning his degrees from North Dakota State University and Stanford, he became a multimillionaire by leading Great Plains Software, which Microsoft purchased for a staggering $1.1 billion. While some career politicians contend themselves merely with empty platitudes, Burgum has shown that he knows how to create real value and drive growth. Perhaps that savvy will translate into effective, money-saving policies at the Interior Department.
Donald Trump proved that leaders must be dealers in hope. pic.twitter.com/EVtvhNphaQ
— Eric Conn (@Eric_Conn) November 14, 2024
In a state known for its vast open spaces and strong GOP roots, Burgum’s governorship has been marked by an ambitious agenda that is starkly different from your usual political fare. When he first threw his hat in the ring for the governorship in 2016, he faced off against a long-serving attorney general and emerged victorious. His messaging about “reinventing” government really resonated with North Dakotans, particularly as they contended with a revenue shortfall. This underdog victory encapsulates what appeals to many voters—fresh ideas and a departure from the political machine.
As governor, Burgum didn’t just sit around grasping at straws; he steered the state towards prosperity with a CEO’s mindset. He’s made a name for himself by advocating for tax cuts, reducing burdensome regulations, and keeping a keen focus on the economic engines of agriculture and oil. His so-called “data-driven” approach is the kind of logic that resonates with the American public, especially when stacked against the convoluted nonsense that often characterizes bureaucratic red tape. By prioritizing a Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and fostering relationships with tribal nations, he shows both a respect for history and a forward-thinking leadership style.
The journey to national prominence hasn’t always been easy for Burgum. He tossed his hat in the presidential ring, albeit briefly, hoping to leaven the national debate with discussions of energy and nationalism. However, like many political newcomers, his campaign didn’t quite light a fire under the electorate, leading him to bow out and quickly align himself with Trump. This might reflect an understanding of where his loyalties—and political fortunes—lie. Once he dropped the presidential aspirations, he also wisely chose to forego a third term as governor, likely to focus on what truly matters—serving in a top-level capacity and potentially reshaping the course of the Interior Department.
Even during his time in office, Burgum has shown the ability to tackle crises head-on. When faced with protests over the Dakota Access Pipeline or the pandemic, he didn’t shy away from leadership responsibilities. His instinct to field daily press conferences during COVID-19 demonstrates that he understands the importance of communication in crisis management. In fact, the emphasis on transparency and public engagement is rare in today’s political landscape. All in all, Doug Burgum’s rise from tech mogul to governor has equipped him with a combination of skills that could make waves in Washington, if given the chance. And given his track record of common-sense governance, one can only hope he brings a refreshing change to an often stagnant department.
