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Rob Port

Columnist

Rob Port was a pioneer in political blogging in North Dakota, founding SayAnythingBlog.com in 2003. Before beginning his writing career, he spent 10 years working as a private investigator specializing in insurance fraud, accessing public records, and criminal defense.

He publishes digital and print columns covering North Dakota government and politics, and also hosts the Plain Talk podcast.

The cast of characters supporting legislation to restrict student athletes tells us a lot about its motivations and goals.
A left-wing group based in Washington, D.C., is already pouring money into opposing the amendment, so far dwarfing spending by a committee aligned with Gov. Kelly Armstrong.
On this Plain Talk, a first-time legislative candidate talks property taxes and childcare, and we discuss a ballot measure battle that could become the most expensive race this election year.
On this Plain Talk, Secretary of State Michael Howe talks about his reelection campaign, and his decision to oppose the implementation of President Trump's vote-by-mail rules.
It turns out the populists, the self-appointed gatekeepers of North Dakota conservatism, never cared about guarding the gate.
State's Attorney Patrick Waters survived a removal petition. Now colleagues, his opponent and residents say he is using his office vindictively.
By standing against Donald Trump’s rushed postal voting overhaul, North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe took a real political risk when he didn't have to. That’s what leadership looks like.
The proposal would hike fees for dispensaries and manufacturers by roughly 50%, even as North Dakota already charges some of the highest medical marijuana fees in the nation.
The proposed amendment would require that proposed constitutional amendments get 60% of the vote on the ballot to become law.
Around the state, local officials are blaming the property tax cap imposed by state lawmakers and Gov. Kelly Armstrong for budget hardships. But forcing tough spending decisions was the whole point.