I really see the vocation of politics like I see every vocation - whether its being a reporter or serving in public life or being a plumber - as an extension of ministry.

My children range in age from 5 to 31. We adopted the 5-year-old, but people are often impressed with my wife before knowing that.

I am a joyful conservative, unafraid to articulate big ideas with an optimistic smile.

I really see the vocation of politics like I see every vocation - whether its being a reporter or serving in public life or being a plumber - as an extension of ministry.

One of the messages I presented to the coal industry was, "If you want to have major transmission built, start encouraging wind development." That's because the cultural value and acceptance of wind energy provides an opportunity to build transmission lines that are not as desirable with traditional forms of generation.

The greatest threats to North Dakota are policies coming out of Washington, D.C. I see it every day and feel a sense of responsibility to do something about it.