Republican
Candidate Questionnaire
What motivated you to run for the North Dakota Legislature? (100 words max)
In 2022, as a long-time small business owner and former Cass County Commissioner, I believe I had the right experience and background to make a positive impact in our state legislature. It was my feeling the legislature needed more people who had served in local government—people who understand issues at the local level, like property taxes, public safety, and critical infrastructure needs. During the past four years, I believe I have made a positive impact in our state legislature, representing the people of District 45 and our state. I would like the honor and privilege of serving them for another four years.
What personal, professional, or community experiences have best prepared you to serve as a State Legislator? (100 words max)
My background includes currently serving as an incumbent District 45 State Representative. I serve on the House Appropriations Committee, including the Human Resources Sub-Section. My interim committee assignments include, the Budget Section and Vice-Chair of the Legislative Audit and Financial Review Committee. Prior to entering the legislature, I served three-terms as a Cass County Commissioner and I’m an original member of the F-M Diversion Authority. I’m also the owner of a service-oriented small business that’s been serving the F-M area for 37 years.
If elected, what would be your top three priorities for the State of North Dakota, and why? (100 words max)
If re-elected, I’ll focus on pro-growth initiatives that support a diversified economy, investing in critical infrastructure needs and public safety. While at the same time making sure we are good stewards of the taxpayer’s money.
Looking ahead five years, what do you see as the most significant opportunities and challenges facing North Dakota? (100 words max)
North Dakota needs to continue its efforts in bridging the workforce gap. The need to continue growing our population by promoting safety and affordability. We need to continue meeting the major infrastructure needs of our state. Finally, we need to continue fiscally sound policies that make us an attractive state to start a business and raise a family.
Do you support the use of state funding for programs and initiatives aimed at attracting, developing, and retaining talent throughout North Dakota? Please explain. (100 words max)
Yes. Prior to my service in the legislature, I served on the Greater Fargo-Moorhead Economic Development Corporation board for 12 years. Workforce retention and attraction have been critical issues for decades, especially in the F-M area.
Do you support the use of state funding for economic development, such as incentives, tax credits, and other programs to support business retention, attraction and expansion? Please explain. (100 words max)
Yes. As long as they are well vetted. I believe with any incentive, the first question that needs to be answered is, "How is the use of this incentive, tax credit, or program in best interest of the taxpayer". This was always the first question asked when a tax incentive was being considered during my 12 years on the Greater Fargo-Moorhead Economic Development Corporation Board.
In 2023, F-M Metro COG conducted a study of the metro area’s housing market that identified the need for 16,400 housing units across the region by 2033. What policies or tools can the Legislature use to support the development of attainable, market-rate housing in Cass County and across North Dakota? (100 words max)
I think one of the most significant things we did in 2025, even though it wasn't directly related to a housing initiative, was the passage of significant tax relief for homeowners. Additionally, I'd like to see the "HOME" program contained in SB2225 come back for consideration next session.
Access to quality childcare continues to be a major concern for families and employers across the state. If elected, how would you work to expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare in North Dakota? Please explain. (100 words max)
During the 2023 legislative session we passed an historic $66 million dollar package for child-care assistance. As a member of the Budget Section, we recently reallocated an additional $35.5 million dollars of unutilized TANF dollars to cover higher than expected utilization of this program.
Do you support the development of the Red River Valley Water Supply Project? Please explain. (100 words max)
Yes. This is a critical water supply project that seeks to secure a reliable long term water supply from the Missouri River to central and eastern North Dakota. The project would help in the mitigation of severe drought and provides essential water security supporting long-term rural and urban demands.
Do you support the development of a Natural Gas Pipeline to Eastern North Dakota? Please explain. (100 words max)
Yes. The pipeline will help fuel new industrial growth in eastern North Dakota and provide an additional source of natural gas coming from the Bakken, creating a more secure and reliable power supply.