Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven has reintroduced legislation to support the establishment of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. This bipartisan bill, co-sponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer and Richard Blumenthal, seeks to authorize the Department of the Interior to provide grants for establishing the library and supporting material displays.

The proposed legislation mirrors the model used for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois. It authorizes using materials related to Theodore Roosevelt and mandates a $50 million funding over five years. The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation is required to match each federal grant with non-federal funds at a 2:1 ratio. The bill prohibits using federal grants for maintenance or operations of the interpretive center.

Hoeven previously secured Senate passage of this bill during the 118th Congress, but it was not acted upon by the House before Congress ended.

“The legacy of Theodore Roosevelt is inseparable from the history of North Dakota, with his time in the Dakota Territory having fundamentally shaped his perspective and character,” stated Senator Hoeven. “Between the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and this new presidential library, our state will honor his life and his lasting contributions to our nation. That’s exactly what we seek to help accomplish through our legislation.”

“Teddy Roosevelt’s life was so much more than his presidency,” added Senator Cramer. “Our bill will help bring artifacts held by the federal government to Medora. Visitors from around the world will be immersed in the life of our favorite Rough Rider and experience firsthand the Badlands that shaped him.”

Hoeven's efforts include sponsoring legislation enabling land purchase in Billings County for constructing a library and museum honoring President Teddy Roosevelt's legacy. Additionally, he secured provisions in an appropriations bill supporting loans of historic artifacts for display at this new facility.