George Sinner

George Sinner was an American politician who served as the 29th governor of North Dakota from 1985 to 1992. Representing the North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party, Sinner's tenure was marked by significant challenges, including the Midwestern farm crisis of the 1980s. He is noted for his leadership during a pivotal time in the state's history and for implementing policies that addressed the needs of North Dakotans. Sinner's political career was preceded by a background in farming and public service, and he remained active in various capacities following his governorship.

Early life and career

George Sinner was born on May 29, 1928, in Fargo, North Dakota. He was the youngest of four children in a family that included his father, Albert Francis Sinner, who worked as a farmer and a bookkeeper for Ford Motor Company, and his mother, Katherine Augusta Wild. Sinner spent his childhood in Casselton, North Dakota, where he was raised in a farming environment that would later influence his political perspectives and priorities.

Sinner's educational journey began at Saint John's Preparatory School, a college preparatory boarding institution in Collegeville, Minnesota, from which he graduated in 1946. He continued his studies at Saint John's University, also in Collegeville, where he earned a degree in philosophy in 1950. Following his graduation, Sinner served in the United States Air National Guard with the 178th Fighter Squadron from 1950 to 1951. This military experience contributed to his understanding of leadership and public service.

Sinner's political career began in the late 1950s when he was elected to the North Dakota Senate in 1962. He served a single four-year term until 1966, during which time he gained valuable experience in legislative processes. Although he faced challenges in securing re-election, including a loss in a congressional race against Mark Andrews in 1964, Sinner remained engaged in public service. His background in agriculture led him to serve as president of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association Board from 1975 to 1979. In this role, he chaired an ad hoc farm commodity group that played a crucial role in funding and constructing the greenhouse complex and the Northern Crops Institute at North Dakota State University in Fargo.

Throughout his career, Sinner was involved in various boards and organizations, including the North Dakota Broadcasting Council and the State Board of Higher Education. His contributions to the State Board of Higher Education were particularly noteworthy, as he helped develop the "Tri-college" system, which allows students at North Dakota State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, and Concordia College in Moorhead to take courses across the institutions. This initiative aimed to enhance educational opportunities and collaboration among the colleges.

Governorship

George Sinner's political ascent culminated in his election as governor of North Dakota in 1984. His tenure began amid a contentious dispute regarding the starting date of his first term. Sinner contended that his term commenced on January 1, 1985, while the outgoing governor, Allen I. Olson, argued for a later start date. The North Dakota Supreme Court ultimately ruled in Sinner's favor, affirming his position just one day before Olson was scheduled to vacate the office. Despite the legal controversy, Sinner's governorship was officially recognized as beginning on January 1.

During his time in office, Sinner faced significant challenges, particularly the economic hardships brought on by the 1980s Midwestern farm crisis. This period was marked by declining agricultural prices and financial instability for many farmers in North Dakota. Sinner's administration worked to address these issues through various initiatives aimed at supporting the agricultural community and stabilizing the state's economy.

In 1989, North Dakota celebrated its centennial, an event that highlighted the state's history and achievements. Sinner's leadership during this milestone was part of his broader efforts to foster a sense of community and pride among residents. Additionally, during his governorship, the North Dakota National Guard was called to serve in the Gulf War as part of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, further emphasizing the state's role in national defense.

Sinner's governorship is also noted for his progressive health policies. He was the first governor in the nation to declare a no-smoking policy in a state capitol building, reflecting his commitment to public health. He also took decisive action during a medical emergency, ordering a "heart flight" to transport a donor heart for an infant recipient in San Francisco. This incident underscored his dedication to healthcare and the well-being of North Dakotans.

Sinner chose not to seek a third term in office and was succeeded by Republican Ed Schafer in 1992. His decision to step down marked the end of a significant chapter in North Dakota's political history, as he was the last governor from the North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party to hold office.

Policy focus and legacy

George Sinner's governorship was characterized by a focus on agricultural issues, public health, and education. His background in farming and his involvement in agricultural organizations informed his policies aimed at supporting the state's agricultural sector during a time of economic distress. Sinner's administration sought to provide assistance to farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices, recognizing the critical role that farming played in North Dakota's economy and cultural identity.

In addition to his agricultural initiatives, Sinner's commitment to education was evident in his support for the Tri-college system, which enhanced collaboration among higher education institutions in the region. This initiative aimed to improve access to educational resources and opportunities for students, reflecting Sinner's belief in the importance of education as a foundation for community development.

Sinner's legacy also includes his contributions to public health policy, particularly his pioneering efforts to create a smoke-free environment in state government buildings. This policy was part of a broader movement toward improving public health standards and reducing smoking-related illnesses.

Following his governorship, Sinner continued to be active in public service as Vice President of Public and Government Relations for the Crystal Sugar Company in Moorhead, Minnesota. He remained involved in farming near Casselton, North Dakota, and his family continued his legacy in public service, with his son George B. Sinner serving in the North Dakota Senate from 2013 to 2017.

George Sinner passed away on March 9, 2018, at the age of 89. At the time of his death, he was recognized as the last surviving governor from the Democratic-NPL party in North Dakota. His contributions to the state and his leadership during challenging times continue to be remembered as part of North Dakota's political history.