Dalrymple thwarts challenge, gets ND GOP backing

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple easily won the endorsement of Republican convention delegates to run for his first term in the job.

Dalrymple beat Fargo architect Paul Sorum on Saturday for the backing of GOP delegates. The vote was 1,128 to 478.

Dalrymple says North Dakota's economy is expanding, and he's supported more state aid to help western North Dakota deal with its oil exploration boom.

Dalrymple says the state has “struck the right balance” between raising spending on needed projects and cutting taxes.

Sorum says state spending growth has outstripped increases in personal income during Dalrymple's time as governor and lieutenant governor. He calls that “an injustice” and “wealth redistribution.”

Dalrymple became governor in December 2010 after serving as lieutenant governor for a decade.

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