Michael Coachman Secures Spot on North Dakota Gubernatorial Ballot as Independent Candidate
- Michael Coachman, an independent candidate, has qualified for the November ballot in the North Dakota governor race.
- He has previously run for various statewide offices in North Dakota.
- His candidacy marks an important development in the state's political landscape as he seeks to challenge traditional party candidates.
BISMARCK, N.D. — Michael Coachman, a U.S. Air Force veteran and former candidate for various statewide offices, has successfully qualified for the November ballot in his independent bid for governor of North Dakota. Coachman, hailing from Larimore, submitted 1,141 valid signatures, surpassing the 1,000 required for candidacy. The Secretary of State's office confirmed his eligibility with an approval letter dated July 15, following his announcement to run in February. In the upcoming gubernatorial race, Coachman will compete against Republican U.S. Representative Kelly Armstrong and Democratic state Senator Merrill Piepkorn. The election is set to fill the position currently held by Republican Governor Doug Burgum, who has opted not to seek a third term. The Republican Party has maintained control of the governor's office in North Dakota since 1992, reflecting the state's conservative political landscape. Burgum, who was once considered a potential vice presidential pick for former President Donald Trump, has chosen not to run again, paving the way for new candidates. Trump ultimately selected U.S. Senator JD Vance from Ohio for the role. Coachman previously ran for governor in 2020, secretary of state in 2018, and lieutenant governor in both 2016 and 2012, though he has not secured a statewide office to date. In 2021, Coachman initiated a recall effort against Burgum and then-Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, but the attempt did not lead to an election. His current campaign marks another chapter in his ongoing political aspirations.