The Backstory from the North Dakota News Cooperative

The latest North Dakota Poll takes a closer look at how residents are responding to major national issues and reveals some notable divides across the state. In this episode of The Backstory, host Sabrina Halvorson talks with reporter Michael Standaert about the latest North Dakota Poll results, which examine presidential approval ratings along with opinions on issues such as the war in Iran, immigration, and the economy. The conversation highlights how responses break down across party lines, regions, and independent voters, groups that often signal shifts in broader public opinion. “People were pointing out this kind of east-west divide and what it might mean going forward,” Standaert said. He noted that approval ratings differed sharply between Fargo-Cass County and western parts of the state. The results show that while party affiliation remains a strong predictor of opinion, independent voters and regional differences continue to shape the political landscape. In particular, the contrast between eastern population centers and western communities offers insight into how demographic growth may influence future elections and policymaking. The episode also underscores how statewide polling helps move beyond assumptions about North Dakota as a single group of voters, offering a clearer picture of how residents across different regions view national issues and leadership.