House Majority Leader Mike Lefor of Dickinson and House Appropriations Chair Don Vigesaa stated this week they will retire from the Legislature after the November election.

“For over two decades, Don has brought fiscal conservatism, sharp attention to detail, and sound judgment to the Legislature,” Gov. Kelly Armstrong said in his response to the announcements. “His trusted leadership as assistant majority leader and House appropriations chair, right up through our recent special session, will pay dividends not only for his constituents in District 29 but for North Dakotans statewide for years to come. He set an example as a true statesman, and his presence in Bismarck will be missed.”

“I’ve known Mike my entire life, and he’s always been someone who steps up to serve his community and his state,” Armstrong added. “During his time as a legislator and especially as House majority leader, he stuck to his principles and provided strong leadership and partnership on tax relief and other issues important to North Dakotans. I’m thankful for his service and fortunate to count him as a friend, and Kjersti and I wish him all the best in what’s ahead.”

Lefor has represented District 37 since 2015, serving as House majority leader since 2023. Vigesaa has served in the House since 2003, currently representing District 29. He has chaired the House Appropriations Committee since 2023 and formerly served as House assistant majority leader.

Lefor said his decision came after much reflection and conversations with family.

“Serving the people of District 37 and the state of North Dakota has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to serve as House Majority Leader alongside dedicated colleagues who truly have the state’s best interests at heart. I have learned so much during my career, and I am thankful for the relationships and experiences that have shaped my time in the legislative assembly,” he said.

He noted he has had the privilege for more than 40 years of serving his community in many capacities, including the local park board, briefly on the city commission, planning and zoning board, several hospital boards and, ultimately, the Legislature.

“Each role has reinforced my belief in public service and strong local leadership. I am especially grateful to the citizens of District 37 for their encouragement and support throughout the years, Lefor said. “While this chapter of public service is ending, my commitment to North Dakota and our community remains strong. I look forward to supporting the next group of leaders and continuing to contribute in ways outside of public office. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and remain optimistic about the future of District 37 and the great state of North Dakota.”

Rep. Scott Louser, R-Minot, said Lefor was a tireless leader during both the regular and interim sessions in which he served.

“Mike was always available to listen and genuinely cared about not just those he served in his district, but all of North Dakota while recognizing each legislator represents unique needs in their home districts,” he said.

“Representative Lefor maintained an open door policy as our Majority leader,” Rep. Jay Fisher, R-Minot, added. “His experience, skill and wisdom will be missed.”

Vigesaa, who served as assistant majority leader for 10 years, was a member of the Industry, Business and Labor and the Transportation committees. He was chairman of the Government Operations Division of the Appropriations Committee for two sessions. He currently serves as chairman of the full House Appropriations Committee and has served in numerous other legislative positions.

Vigesaa said it was a very difficult decision for him and his wife, Cheryl, to make but he felt the time had come to retire. He said it has been an honor and a privilege to represent the people of District 23 and District 29 as well as the citizens of North Dakota over the years.

“Being a member of the North Dakota Legislature has been an amazing life experience for Cheryl and me. The relationships developed and the friendships made will never be forgotten. I am extremely grateful for the support I have received from my family, and I sincerely thank everyone who has assisted and encouraged me in this journey, especially the citizens who put their faith and trust in me to represent them in Bismarck.”

“Chairman Vigesaa has been a mentor from the time I replaced him as Assistant Majority Leader,” Louser said, “and even more so when my assignment changed to the Appropriations Committee during the 2025 session. He is a calm and measured legislator whose steady leadership and quiet integrity will be missed by all who had the privilege to serve with him.”

Fisher, a member of House Appropriations, called Vigesaa an outstanding statesman.

“His calm, respectful, wise leadership will be missed in our House. He was a mentor for me and many others during his years of service to our great state,” he said.

Rep. Gretchen Dobervich, D-Fargo, also announced Wednesday, Jan. 28, that she will not seek reelection.. She has represented District 11 in Fargo since 2016 and will complete 10 years of service in the Legislature at the conclusion of her term. Dobervich was known for her work on health and human services policy.