AP: US Rep. Kelly Armstrong wins North Dakota’s Republican primary for governor

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong has won North Dakota’s Republican primary for governor, setting him up for a likely general election victory in the conservative state in November.

The state’s lone congressional representative beat Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller in the race to succeed Republican Gov. Doug Burgum, who did not seek a third term and is in the running to be former President Donald Trump’s vice presidential running mate.

“I want to congratulate Congressman Armstrong on his hard-fought campaign and victory,” Lt. Governor Tammy Miller said.

“Throughout this campaign, I loved traveling our state, meeting with voters and listening to their suggestions and concerns. We are incredibly grateful to the thousands of supporters and grassroots conservatives who put their faith in us. I intend to run through the tape as Lt. Governor, continuing to do everything I can to help this great state thrive. Serving our state has been the honor of a lifetime and I continue to believe that North Dakota’s best days are ahead of us,” continued Miller.

“I’m endorsing Congressman Armstrong and encourage my supporters to get behind his campaign this fall.”

Armstrong is an attorney and former state senator who is serving his third term in the U.S. House.

His primary win puts him in a commanding position for the general election, as Democrats have not won a statewide election since 2012 and Republicans have held the governor’s office since 1992.

The next governor will take office in mid-December, weeks before the biennial legislative session begins.