Gov. Burgum states that there was no "quid pro quo" arrangement between Trump and oil executives at Mar-a-Lago.

• Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota refuted claims that former President Donald Trump promised to reduce regulations in exchange for financial support to secure re-election.
• Trump's reelection was not financed by the oil industry, according to Burgum.
• Continental Resources, the largest oil and gas leaseholder in North Dakota, is connected to the governor and his family.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who is being considered as a potential running mate for former President Donald Trump, is refuting allegations that Trump promised to reduce regulations in exchange for financial support to secure a second term in office.

The Washington Post reported that Trump promised to reverse numerous environmental rules and policies put in place by the Biden administration and prevent new ones from being implemented if the oil executives raised $1 billion to support his re-election.

Trump reportedly said that the donation would make it a "deal" because they'd avoid taxation and regulation due to him. Additionally, he told executives that he would auction off more oil drilling leases in the Gulf of Mexico.

"Burgum stated on "Face the Nation" that the meeting did not occur as reported, and there was no request for a billion dollars in donations or quid pro quo."

Burgum stated that Trump was not targeting the oil industry for funding his reelection, as he is simply doing what candidates do by listening to an industry that is crucial to the economy.

In December 2023, Burgum ended his bid to become the Republican nominee for president and has since become an advisor to Trump on energy policy.

Continental Resources leases 200 acres of farmland in Williams County, North Dakota, from Burgum's family for oil and gas pumping.

Since signing a contract with Continental in 2009, his family business has likely made thousands more in royalties than the $50,000 he disclosed in financial statements since late 2022.

Burgum stated that he is not concerned about the potential alienation of young voters due to his alignment with the energy industry, as they prioritize climate and environmental policy.

Earlier this year, Burgum, a software entrepreneur and current governor, announced that he would not seek a third term. His second term will end on December 14.