North Dakota candidate who died of COVID-19 will remain on ballot

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A Republican candidate for the state legislature in North Dakota who died of COVID-19 earlier this month will remain on the ballot. 

David Andahl, 55, a Bismark rancher and developer who was running in the 8th District, garnered endorsements from top Republicans, including Gov. Doug Burgum and U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer, before he died Oct. 5. 

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Andahl's name will remain on the ballot following a decision by state Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem.  Should he win on Nov. 3, the state Republican Party will appoint a replacement.

"In the event the deceased candidate receives the majority of the votes, the candidate is elected. However, if the prevailing candidate has died, the candidate is no longer qualified, and a vacancy would exist," Stenehjem wrote, citing state law on filling a legislative vacancy.

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Voters have the option to petition for a special election after the legislative session if they are unhappy with the appointment. 

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The incumbent candidate, Republican Rep. Jeff Delzer, is the chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.