Michael Howe is a Republican serving as North Dakota's 15th Secretary of State since January 1, 2023. A fifth-generation family farmer from Casselton, he manages Howe Seed Farms alongside his father, Jim, applying conservative business principles to agriculture. Previously, he represented District 22 in rural Cass County in the North Dakota House of Representatives from 2017 to 2022. Notable achievements include spearheading 2021 legislation protecting small businesses from COVID-19-related frivolous lawsuits, contributing to North Dakota being ranked the best state to start a business by Forbes Advisor in 2023 and 2024, and receiving the 2025 Horizon Award from North Dakota State University. He serves on state boards including the Board of University and School Lands, Emergency Commission, State Historical Board, State Canvassing Board, and Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award Board, and nationally as Midwestern Region Vice President on the National Association of Secretaries of State Executive Board.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor of Science from North Dakota State University , graduated in 2010.
• Political Experience: Elected to North Dakota House for District 22 ; served on House Appropriations Committee and as chairman of the interim Government Finance Committee; elected Secretary of State in 2022.