North Dakota GOP Faces Financial Struggles Amid Leadership Tensions

The North Dakota Republican Party (NDGOP) is grappling with significant fundraising challenges, prompting a warning from its chairman, Matthew Simon. Recent reports indicate that the party, under Simon’s leadership, has seen a troubling decline in financial contributions, raising concerns among party members about its future.

At a recent executive committee meeting on November 10, 2023, the issue of internal communication leaks emerged as a point of contention. The draft minutes from the meeting revealed that Simon expressed frustration over information being shared with the media. The minutes stated, “Should this continue, measures may need to be taken to determine who is leaking this information.” This concern highlights the tension within the party as it struggles to maintain a unified front.

The absence of financial updates during the meeting adds to the uncertainty surrounding the NDGOP’s monetary situation. The party treasurer was unable to attend, leaving questions about the party’s financial health unanswered. As of now, the NDGOP has not filed its monthly disclosure with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), and its state disclosure report is not due until the end of the year. Previous filings indicate a sharp decline in fundraising, with the party reporting only $370 raised in July. Although revenues improved slightly in August, bringing in just over $4,000, sources suggest that the party continues to face financial difficulties.

According to a Republican lawmaker familiar with the situation, there is frustration among party members regarding unpaid dues from legislators. This sentiment points to a broader issue within the NDGOP, particularly related to its populist faction’s approach toward traditional conservatives. The party’s leadership has engaged in contentious battles, such as attempts to expel delegates aligned with House Majority Leader Mike Lefor during the previous year’s state convention.

Further complicating the party’s dynamics, Brandon Prichard, a close associate of Simon and a former lawmaker, was involved in a smear campaign against multiple incumbent Republican legislators during the 2024 primaries. The backlash from these tactics contributed to the party’s ongoing struggles, as many candidates backed by Prichard were unsuccessful, and he was ultimately voted out of office.

Simon’s leadership has also faced criticism due to the party’s censure of elected officials, including Governor Kelly Armstrong, who remains popular among constituents. A recent poll indicated that Armstrong is the most favored elected leader in North Dakota, with 72% of respondents approving of his property tax plan. The NDGOP’s decision to attack established leaders may hinder its ability to garner support from legislators and party members, leading to further financial instability.

Despite these challenges, the financial woes of the NDGOP do not automatically translate to electoral failures. Established Republican incumbents in North Dakota have developed strong fundraising networks independent of the party, allowing them to maintain their positions without relying heavily on party support. However, concerns arise regarding the long-term implications of the party’s current dysfunction. The question remains: who will step into leadership roles once the current incumbents leave office?

As the NDGOP navigates these turbulent waters, it faces a critical juncture. Without addressing internal divisions and financial challenges, the party’s future may be at stake, further complicating its ability to rally support from both its members and the broader Republican base.