The North Dakota Farmers Union has elected Matt Perdue as its new president. Perdue is just the tenth individual to lead the organization and the youngest at 33 years of age. Perdue farms with his family near Ray in northwest North Dakota. He previously worked for NDFU and the National Farmers Union. Heading into the election, Perdue heard from members from across the state. “The farm economy is a big challenge; obviously, it has been an uncertain marketing season with tariffs.” said Perdue. “The other thing I hear a lot about is healthcare; people are seeing increased health insurance premiums and we need to have a real conversation about long-term, meaningful healthcare reform in this country.” Perdue succeeds Mark Watne, who did not seek reelection after serving 12 years. Perdue said that he’s inheriting a great situation at NDFU thanks to Watne. “Watne was a great boss, a great mentor, a great friend to me, and we’re very appreciative of his leadership. Looking internally, North Dakota Farmers Union is an incredibly strong organization, with strong financial resources, a strong membership base, and I view it as my responsibility to ensure it continues to grow stronger.”
