[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 2, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S492]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      REMEMBERING WAYNE STENEHJEM

 Mr. HOEVEN. Mr. President, today I would like to pay tribute 
to the late North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, a dedicated 
public servant, a colleague, and a true friend. Attorney General 
Stenehjem spent four decades serving the people of North Dakota. He was 
a fierce advocate for the rule of law and the rights of North Dakotans.
  His was a tremendous and impactful career that clearly demonstrated 
his devotion to our State, which he called home for the entirety of his 
life. Wayne was born in Mohall, ND. He graduated from the University of 
North Dakota and received his law degree from the University of North 
Dakota School of Law. He is survived by his wife, Beth Bakke Stenehjem, 
and his son, Andrew, along with many other loved ones.
  Wayne started his career in public service in the State legislature, 
where he served for 24 years, first as a member of the North Dakota 
House of Representatives and then as a member of the North Dakota 
Senate. He then ran for the position of attorney general in 2000, the 
same year I was elected Governor and the first time either of us sought 
statewide office. I had the benefit of traveling much of the State with 
Wayne that year, where I came to know him as a solid, reliable 
individual with a tremendous sense of humor.
  Wayne capped off his career in public office as our State's longest 
serving attorney general. Throughout my time as Governor and as a U.S. 
Senator, I had many opportunities to work with Wayne on keeping our 
communities safe, supporting our law enforcement officials, and 
protecting the rights of North Dakotans. He worked tirelessly to 
advance these important goals, and I will always be proud of our shared 
efforts in these matters. Moreover, I am grateful for our time 
together, both as colleagues and as friends.
  He will be greatly missed and remembered well for the meaningful 
legacy he has left behind. Mikey and I send our sincerest condolences 
to Beth, Andrew, and the entire Stenehjem family.

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