Did they? Or was the election stolen?
Another hint, there, the oil production is all in the western part of the state, the oil envy is in the East, where Heitkamp allegedly carried a few (mostly urban) counties. Think Fargo and Grand Forks, who are jealous of the oil boom even though they indirectly benefit from the revenue, too.
But if you pay attention to all the races on the ticket, as I said, somehow Heidi bucked the trend of R+15% or more to squeak out a 'win'. It is subject to a recount, that's how close that was.
So don't go putting down the 2nd highest oil producing state in the Nation as being wholesale behind Hairy Reed or any of the Demagenda.
ND does not qualify for secession. You can check the rules yourself. If you do not believe me, look at InTrade on ND secession.
Additionally, the west coast needs a corridor from WA to MN to keep the Union contiguous. ND and MT stay. And Couer D’Alene, too.