North Dakota State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler’s nomination to serve as the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education has advanced to the full United States Senate.
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) approved Baesler’s nomination Friday in a party-line vote of 12-11, as part of an en bloc vote advancing seven of President Donald Trump’s nominees for key federal posts.
“I am grateful for the Senate HELP Committee’s vote and honored for the opportunity to support our nation’s students, families, and teachers,” Baesler said following the committee’s decision. “If confirmed by the Senate, I am committed to working closely with my colleagues for continued progress in serving students effectively.”
No date has been set for the full Senate to vote on Baesler’s confirmation.
Baesler, who has served as North Dakota’s State Superintendent since 2013, is currently in her fourth term following her re-election in 2024.
If confirmed by the Senate, Baesler has said she will resign her current post. North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong will appoint a successor to serve until the 2026 general election. That election will determine who completes the remaining two years of Baesler’s current term.
Baesler’s nomination places a veteran state education leader at the helm of a key federal post overseeing the nation’s elementary and secondary education policy.