North Dakota Commissioner Hamm Declared Winner in Tight Race

November 5, 2008

In a tight race that was not officially called until early today, Nov. 5, incumbent Republican Adam Hamm has been elected North Dakota insurance commissioner.

He narrowly defeated Democratic challenger Fargo state Representative Jasper Schneider. Hamm was appointed in February 2008, by Governor Hoeven to replace former Insurance Commissioner Jim Poolman, who resigned to enter the private sector.

In this exceptionally close race, Hamm received 150,710 or 50.3 percent of the vote to Schneider’s 148,929 or 49.7 percent. Total votes cast were 299,639.

In comments made to Insurance Journal the Commissioner noted that, he is “gratified and humbled at the same time to have won this election.”

Hamm said that he owes thanks to the Governor, the people of North Dakota, the insurance department staff, who supported me from the time I was named, my entire campaign staff and family.” He added that the family has the least control but is always there by your side.

On the legislative front, Hamm said that he plans to push for the graduated drivers license proposal for teens and will also work on more consumer protection for all, but especially for seniors with medicare and medicaid issues.

The state of North Dakota remained a Republican stronghold during this election except in the eastern part of the state in the counties of Cass and Grand Forks, Hamm said.

“Those are counties closest to our neighbor Minnesota,” the Commissioner said.

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