Democrat Setback in North Dakota After Liz Conmy’s Departure Shakes Party Leadership

FARGO, N.D. — North Dakota state Representative Liz Conmy, a Democratic-NPL lawmaker from Fargo, was killed Saturday in a small plane crash in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, officials confirmed. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Crystal Airport, claiming the lives of both occupants on board.

Crash Details and Investigation

The Brooklyn Park Police Department reported responding to the crash at 11:51 a.m. On Saturday, April 25, 2026. Authorities found the aircraft engulfed in flames in a park near the city. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that two people were on board the Beech F33A airplane at the time of the crash. No injuries were reported on the ground.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. An NTSB spokesperson confirmed that investigators were expected to arrive at the scene on Sunday to document the site and examine the wreckage. The agency has not yet released preliminary findings.

Tributes and Reactions

The North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party (Democratic-NPL) confirmed Conmy’s death in a statement on social media, calling her a “champion for public education, the environment, and transparency.” The party described her loss as “a profound loss for our state” and expressed deep sorrow over her passing.

“We are completely heartbroken and gutted by the loss of Representative Liz Conmy. Her death is a profound loss for our state.”

North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party, statement on X

North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong, a Republican, issued a statement offering condolences to Conmy’s family, friends, and colleagues. “Liz served her state and community with care and compassion, from her service in the Legislature and on the state’s Human Trafficking Commission to her work on education, habitat, and immigration,” Armstrong said. She also directed all U.S. And North Dakota flags to be flown at half-staff from dawn to dusk on the day of Conmy’s interment.

Lieutenant Governor Michelle Strinden, also a Republican, shared her grief over the loss of Conmy, whom she described as a “dear friend and former colleague.” Strinden highlighted Conmy’s dedication to strengthening public education and her work on the state’s Education and Judiciary committees.

State Senator Tim Mathern, who represented District 11 alongside Conmy, remembered her as someone with “a zest for life.” Mathern told the Star Tribune that Conmy was known for her adventurous spirit and direct approach to advocacy.

House Minority Leader Zac Ista, a Democrat, released a statement mourning Conmy’s death. “I am completely devastated at the loss of our friend Liz,” Ista said. “She lived life to its fullest, never shying from adventure or speaking her mind—often in refreshingly direct terms. As a lawmaker, she championed public education, the environment, and transparency.”

Conmy’s Legacy in North Dakota

Liz Conmy, 67, was a resident of Fargo and the mother of four children. She had served in the North Dakota House of Representatives, where she was known for her advocacy on issues such as public education, environmental protection, and government transparency. Conmy also served on the state’s Human Trafficking Commission, contributing to efforts to combat exploitation and support survivors.

Colleagues and constituents remembered Conmy for her passion and dedication to her community. Her death has left a significant void in the state’s political landscape, with leaders from both parties expressing shock and sadness over the tragedy.

Funeral Arrangements Pending

As of Tuesday, April 28, 2026, funeral arrangements for Representative Liz Conmy had not yet been announced. Governor Armstrong’s office indicated that an updated flag advisory would be issued once details of the interment were finalized.

Support resources for those affected by the tragedy are available through local grief counseling services and community organizations in Fargo and across North Dakota.