Wow, I had not followed the race closely but I had just assumed Stenehjem would skate to the nomination due to the fact he's the long time Attorney General. But wow, not only did Burgum win, but it wasn't even close. I would consider this an upset.
But it seems that if Stenehjem wants it, he could run again for attorney general, he didn't give up his seat to run for Governor. He's not up for reelection till 2018. Also, I just looked up Stenehjem's electoral history to learn more about him after the loss. So for someone more well versed in North Dakota politics... If the AG has a 4 year term, why was there an Attorney General Election in both 2004 and 2006, but then it's been normal ever since? There was an AG election in 2000, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014... Next one is 2018. Why only a two year term after 2004? Not extremely important I guess, but just curious.
My guess: Originally ND AG was elected on Presidential years, but moved to midterm years. Therefore, to transition, the 2004 election was for a two year term, followed by another one in 2006 for four years.
