Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota expressed his sadness over the passing of former state Senator Dwight Cook of Mandan. Senator Cramer, who had known Cook for a long time, shared his memories of their friendship and highlighted Cook's contributions to the state.

"I was very sad to learn of Dwight's passing," Senator Cramer said. "I've known Dwight for a long time, since I was in high school in Kindred when Dwight sponsored and coached a softball team. Dwight was a softball aficionado, kind of like he was a tax expert. He was serious, he was knowledgeable, even intense at times, but always joyful, never angry."

Senator Cramer also reflected on his professional relationship with Cook, particularly in the area of finance and tax policy. "I worked closely with Dwight on finance and tax policy when I was Economic Development Director in the Schafer administration," he said. "We went to work together right in the middle of the session, finding some tax policy that would create enough of an incentive to keep the oil refinery in Mandan open, creating those great jobs and producing refined oil products."

The senator acknowledged Cook's significant contributions to North Dakota's economic growth, stating, "We all will miss him a lot, but we'll see a lot of him for a long time because he helped shape a tax regime in our state that creates the foundation of economic growth we've seen in North Dakota for the last couple of decades, and that will continue because of the incredible work Dwight prepared and did for our state."

Expressing his regret at not spending more time with Cook, Senator Cramer said, "It's times like this where I regret not spending more time with him, quite honestly. I pray for him and for his family, and I'm just grateful he was a friend."

Senator Cook represented District 34 from 1997 to 2020 and served as chair of the Senate Finance and Taxation Committee from 2009 to 2020. His dedication to his role and his expertise in tax policy greatly impacted the state of North Dakota.

As the news of Dwight Cook's passing spreads, many individuals and organizations are mourning the loss of a respected leader and friend. Cook's legacy will be remembered for his contributions to tax policy and his commitment to economic growth in North Dakota.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-statement-on-passing-of-former-north-dakota-senator-dwight-cook