MINOT — More candidates were chosen at the Democratic-NPL State Convention in Minot on Saturday.
The day started with speeches from Minority Leaders Sen. Joan Heckaman, D-Dis. 2, New Rockford, and Rep. Josh Boschee, D-Dis. 44, Fargo on the Democratic nominees for the North Dakota State Legislature.
The nomination for Secretary of State was tabled to the afternoon.
The nomination for another position in the Public Service Commission went unanimously to Trigve Hammer, from Velva.
“If you’re tired of seeing decent, thoughtful Republicans being marginalized and called ‘RINOS,' send a message, vote for a Democrat,” said Hammer in his speech. “If you look at the Public Service Commission and think it could use someone with a diverse background, who’s worked in transportation logistics, and in the oil field, and who will look out for the people of North Dakota, vote for a Democrat.”
Delegates had two people to choose between for the U.S. House of Representatives nomination. It was given to Mark Haugen, from District 32, with Roland Riemers, from District 18, losing out.
In an interview, Haugen talked about infrastructure, pro-life, and healthcare issues.
“We have billions of dollars coming back for roads, infrastructure, bridges, and other broadband technology that’s going to be helpful to North Dakota as well,” said Haugen. “I am a moderate, I’m pro-life. That’s not a secret. I’m proud of my convictions that life begins at conception. I believe in paid family leave, taking care of veterans. We need to stand up to our obligations to our Native American tribes, especially in healthcare.”
The U.S. Senate position was also a contested race, with delegates hearing from both Andrew Alexis Varvel of Bismarck and Katrina Christiansen of Jamestown. Ultimately, Christiansen had the majority of the support and received the Democratic nomination.
Christiansen stated in her speech, “I am here, because I love this country, this state, and I want to serve you. I want to also thank you for continuing to fight for the things that you care about: Climate change, equality, and for understanding and promoting the value of progressive programs like affordable housing and healthcare and equality in education.” She continued in an interview, saying, “I just want North Dakota to have opportunity for everyone.”
The last credentials report stated more than 200 delegates had attended the convention both in person and virtually.
The convention then hosted two in-person keynote speakers, Carrie Evans, a member of the Minot City Council, and Rep. Boshee.
“I think we don’t recognize that more North Dakotans share our values, our ethics, our mission. It’s our job to transcend that and to figure that out,” said Evans. “In Minot you would never know this, with all the folks up here who are on the radical side of the Republican party, but I would say the vast majority of the people share my values.”
“Across the state right now, right wing, Bastiat extremists are taking down long-standing incumbents,” Sen. Boschee stated. “While we may not agree with them, many of these incumbents are thoughtful people, with whom we have worked with, and should continue to work with. I see the seeds of a strong state party, and most importantly, a better North Dakota for all of us. My ask of you today, is to take look at your community, of the people around you who show up and do the work. Progress happens quietly, slowly, and steadily, until finally it’s here.”
The next nomination was then made for the Attorney General position, which unanimously went to Timothy Lamb.
“It is indeed an honor for me to accept the nomination for the office of North Dakota Attorney General. I am grateful for your support,” said Lamb, in a virtual speech.
The Tax Commissioner and Secretary of State positions have been tabled to be appointed by the executive committee. The filing deadline is April 11, 2022.
