Janne Myrdal

Janne Myrdal is a Republican member of the North Dakota Senate, representing the 19th district. She has been in office since her initial election in 2016, when she served the 10th district, and was re-elected in 2020. Myrdal is recognized for her active involvement in social issues, particularly her anti-abortion stance and her opposition to LGBTQ rights. Currently serving in the state legislature, she continues to influence policy discussions in North Dakota.

Early life and career

Janne Myrdal was born on May 4, 1962, in Telemark, Norway. She spent her early years in Norway, where she completed her high school education. Following her graduation, Myrdal traveled to Texas for a year, engaging in humanitarian work as part of her Christian faith. During her time in Texas, she met Mark Myrdal, an American farmer from North Dakota. The couple married in Skien, Norway, in 1994. Together, they have three children, whom they have raised on their family farm located in rural Edinburg, North Dakota. In addition to her role as a legislator, Myrdal has been a homemaker, managing her household while participating in community and political activities.

Before entering the North Dakota Senate, Myrdal was actively involved in various conservative organizations. She served as the head of ND Choose Life, an anti-abortion group, where she advocated for pro-life policies. Additionally, she held the position of director for the North Dakota chapter of Concerned Women for America, a conservative activist organization that focuses on issues related to family and morality, including opposition to LGBTQ rights. Myrdal's background in these organizations laid the groundwork for her political career and her legislative priorities.

Legislative service

Myrdal began her legislative career when she was first elected to the North Dakota Senate in 2016, representing the 10th district. Her tenure in the Senate has been marked by her engagement in various legislative sessions and her involvement in a range of bills that reflect her policy interests. In the 2017 legislative session, she co-sponsored a controversial bill that sought to classify internet-connected devices as "pornographic vending machines." This bill faced significant criticism and was ultimately withdrawn from consideration.

Throughout her legislative career, Myrdal has been associated with several notable bills. In the 2019 session, she co-sponsored legislation that required physicians to inform women about the possibility of reversing a drug-induced abortion. This bill was contentious, as it was challenged by medical professionals who argued that the claim lacked scientific support. Although the bill was enacted, it was subsequently blocked by a federal judge on the grounds that it compelled doctors to provide misleading information to their patients.

In the 2021 legislative session, Myrdal introduced a bill aimed at defunding North Dakota State University due to its involvement in a research project focused on youth sex education. This initiative reflected her ongoing commitment to influencing educational policies in the state.

Myrdal's legislative activities continued into the 2023 session, where she supported Senate Bill 2231, which sought to restrict government entities from requiring employees to use individuals' preferred pronouns. This bill also mandated that teachers obtain approval from both parents and school administrators before addressing students by names or pronouns that differ from their sex at birth. Myrdal's support for this legislation was rooted in her belief that it aligned with constitutional rights regarding freedom of religion and speech.

In the same session, she introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 4013, which aimed to tighten the process for constitutional initiatives in North Dakota. This resolution received significant support and passed with a substantial majority. Myrdal's actions in the Senate have often sparked discussions and debates, particularly regarding her positions on social issues.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the North Dakota Senate, Myrdal represents the 19th district, which encompasses a diverse constituency. Her policy focus has been heavily influenced by her conservative values, particularly in areas concerning family, education, and social issues. Myrdal's legislative agenda has prominently featured anti-abortion measures and opposition to LGBTQ rights, reflecting her background in conservative activism.

Myrdal's political activities have not been without controversy. For instance, during a Senate prayer session in February 2023, she and another senator turned their backs to a Reverend who was delivering a prayer that acknowledged diversity. This incident drew public attention and criticism, highlighting the polarizing nature of her political stances.

In the 2020 election, Myrdal was re-elected with a significant majority, securing 74% of the vote. This victory positioned her for potential further re-election opportunities, as she is eligible to serve additional terms before reaching the term limits established by Measure 1.

Myrdal's legislative career continues to evolve as she navigates the complexities of state politics. Her focus on conservative values and her active participation in legislative discussions underscore her commitment to her constituents and her party's platform. As she serves in the North Dakota Senate, Myrdal remains a prominent figure in the ongoing debates surrounding social and educational policies in the state.