Governor Arthur Gustav Sorlie

ARTHUR G. SORLIE, the fourteenth governor of North Dakota, was born in Freeborn County (near Albert Lea), Minnesota on April 26, 1874. His education was attained at the Albert Lea Lutheran Academy. Before entering into politics, Sorlie worked as a store manager, bank teller and traveling salesman. He eventually became a successful businessman, owning car dealerships and gas stations. Sorlie first entered politics as a member of the Grand Forks City Council, a position he held two terms. He next secured the Nonpartisan League gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in the 1924 general election. He was reelected to a second term in 1926. During his tenure, fair pricing on farm goods was lobbied for; and an investigation into the state-owned mill and elevator was dealt with. While in office, Governor Sorlie became ill, and passed away on August 28, 1928.