BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - Former tech executive Doug Burgum's Silicon Valley-styled approach to leading North Dakota government has sparked conflicts with longtime Republican power brokers.
The former Microsoft vice president replaced his office desk chair with a wellness ball, frequently wears jeans and assigned subordinates corporate titles. But a looming conflict extends far beyond style.
Lawmakers and the governor may ask the state Supreme Court to sort out their ongoing dispute over vetoes.
Such friction has been rare in North Dakota, so overwhelmingly Republican that Donald Trump carried it by 36 points last year. At the Capitol, the GOP controls more than 80 percent of both chambers.
House Majority Leader Al Carlson said the veto lawsuit might have been avoided with better communication. Burgum says his door is always open.