North Dakota Lawmaker Jared Hagert Resigns

Hagert, a Republican state representative, has accepted a position in Washington, D.C.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jared Hagert, a Republican member of the North Dakota House of Representatives, has resigned from his legislative seat. Hagert, a farmer from Emerado, North Dakota, submitted his resignation letter on February 9, stating that he has accepted a position in Washington, D.C. for the remainder of the current administration's term, which does not allow him to continue serving in the North Dakota Legislature.

Why it matters

Hagert's resignation marks a change in North Dakota's political landscape, as the state legislature will need to fill the vacant seat. The reasons behind Hagert's decision to leave the legislature and take a position in Washington, D.C. are not entirely clear, but it could signal a shift in the state's political dynamics.

The details

In his resignation letter, Hagert expressed that his time in the North Dakota Legislature has been a 'meaningful endeavor' and a 'highlight' of his personal and professional experience. He also wished the esteemed members of the 67th, 68th, and 69th Assemblies well as they head into another session. The North Dakota Legislative Council confirmed that Hagert's resignation was effective as of 8 a.m. on Monday, February 9.

  • Hagert's resignation was effective on February 9, 2026.
  • Hagert has accepted a position in Washington, D.C. for the remainder of the current administration's term.

The players

Jared Hagert

A Republican member of the North Dakota House of Representatives and a farmer from Emerado, North Dakota, who has resigned from his legislative seat to accept a position in Washington, D.C.

Governor Kelly Armstrong

The governor of North Dakota, whose office was made aware of Hagert's resignation.

Mike Nowatzki

The spokesman for Governor Kelly Armstrong's office.

Senator David Hogue

The North Dakota state senator to whom Hagert submitted his resignation letter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The legislature has been a meaningful endeavor that serves as a highlight of my personal and professional experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed my terms of service with the esteemed members of the 67th, 68th and 69th Assemblies and wish you well as you head into another session soon.”

— Jared Hagert, Former North Dakota State Representative (North Dakota Legislative Council)

What’s next

The North Dakota Legislature will need to hold a special election to fill the vacant seat left by Hagert's resignation.

The takeaway

Hagert's resignation highlights the fluid nature of state-level politics, as lawmakers sometimes leave their positions mid-term to pursue other opportunities. The North Dakota Legislature will now have to navigate the process of finding a replacement for Hagert, which could impact the balance of power in the state's political landscape.