North Dakota Delegation Seeks $50 Million Federal Grant for Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

The North Dakota congressional delegation has introduced a bill to authorize a $50 million federal grant for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota. The grant would primarily go towards creating museum spaces in the facility and enable federal agencies to feature Roosevelt artifacts in the museum, which is set to open on July 4, 2026.

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library project has already raised $240 million in private donations, and the total construction cost is estimated at $333 million. The state of North Dakota has also approved a $50 million operations endowment and a $70 million line of credit to support the library.

The bill introduced by the North Dakota delegation requires a two-thirds match from state funds or non-federal sources and prohibits the federal money from being used for the library's maintenance or operations. The library will remain privately held, and the organizers have stated that federal grants are not uncommon for presidential libraries.

Why this matters: The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library will showcase the life and legacy of the 26th U.S. president, who had strong ties to North Dakota. The federal grant, if approved, would significantly contribute to the construction of this major cultural and historical institution in the state.

The planned exhibits at the library will include a chronological view of Roosevelt's life, including his time in the Badlands of North Dakota as a young man in the 1880s. The library's opening on July 4, 2026, will coincide with the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

While some state legislators have raised concerns about the use of taxpayer funds for the project, supporters view the library as a "wise investment in our nation's historical preservation," according to the congressional delegation. The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is expected to become a significant attraction, showcasing the legacy of one of America's most influential presidents and his connection to North Dakota.

Key Takeaways

• North Dakota seeks $50M federal grant for Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
• Project has raised $240M in private donations, with $120M in state funding.
• Federal grant requires 2/3 match from state or non-federal sources.
• Library to showcase Roosevelt's life, including his time in North Dakota.
• Library expected to become a major historical attraction in North Dakota.