Kevin Cramer has represented North Dakota in the U.S. Senate since 2019, after serving as the state’s at-large member of the U.S. House. He’s carved out a profile as a reliably pro-industry, pro-fossil-fuel conservative who ties national policy debates directly back to oil, gas, and farm country.
In the Senate, he’s pushed deregulation, lower taxes, and federal policies favorable to domestic energy production and ag-heavy export markets. He’s also emphasized strengthening rural infrastructure — broadband, roads, and support for veterans and bases in the Upper Midwest.
His critics say he’s too cozy with fossil fuel interests and too partisan on climate and healthcare. His supporters say he’s doing exactly what North Dakota sent him to do: defend drilling, defend agriculture, and fight what they see as coastal overreach.
Mainstream Conservative
Achievements
- Advanced tax and deregulation measures in the Senate
- Championed North Dakota oil, gas, and pipeline interests
- Supported trade deals and export policy favorable to Midwest agriculture
- Backed rural broadband, roads, and base/veterans’ investments
- Advocated for a stronger U.S. military posture and defense funding
Controversies
- Criticized for extremely close alignment with fossil fuel and pipeline companies
- Consistent opposition to major climate and emissions policies
- Accused of hyper-partisan voting on healthcare and regulation
- Scrutiny from environmental groups over water/land protections
- Framed by opponents as prioritizing industry over climate risk
Top Donors
| Donor | Total | Individuals | PACs |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Israel Public Affairs Cmte | $251,927 | $246,927 | $5,000 |
| Energy Transfer Partners | $46,200 | $46,200 | $0 |
| Hess Corp | $42,500 | $32,500 | $10,000 |
| Curaleaf Inc | $34,805 | $34,805 | $0 |
| Brownstein, Hyatt et al | $30,016 | $20,516 | $9,500 |
Amounts shown reflect organization-linked giving; most funds listed here are from individual donors or aligned PACs.
Recent Elections
2018 Margin R +11.1%
2024 Margin R +32.93%