The Trial and Troubles of Wild Bill Langer

Former North Dakota Governor, William Langer, known as Wild Bill, faced legal trouble over a scheme involving the extortion of state employees. Langer coerced state workers to redirect part of their salaries to a newspaper owned by his political party, generating significant funds. However, complications arose when federal funds were involved, potentially constituting a federal crime. Langer was charged with conspiracy to defraud the U.S., tried in federal court, convicted, and sentenced to prison. He refused to accept his removal as governor and even declared martial law. Despite this controversial saga, Langer received unwavering support from the Republican Party and went on to win a seat in the United States Senate.