Conservative values are founded on the unwavering principle that people, not government, are best left to decide how to live their lives. Further, that a free society is based on the innate belief that the opportunity to succeed is not reserved for only a select few, but available to all.
In the words of Ronald Regan, our 40th President:
“Government’s first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives.”
Those words have guided, and continue to guide, my actions as a public servant.
Over the past 3 1/2 years at the Public Service Commission, I’ve promoted a citizens-first, limited-government approach. This involves being a strong advocate for private-property rights, including removal of the Prime Farmland Rule dating back to the late 1970s.
I believe in responsible infrastructure development, recognizing the rule of law and providing regulatory certainty that companies need in order to invest in our state That equates to billions of dollars of energy infrastructure projects throughout North Dakota that create jobs and support communities.
Work at the PSC encompasses numerous jurisdictional responsibilities that are critical to the safety and well-being of North Dakota citizens and businesses. From energy siting cases to utility regulation, oversight of safety programs including gas pipelines, railroads and ND One Call, to the commission’s nationally recognized coal reclamation program, we’re often recognized as a model for other states to follow.
That doesn’t happen by accident. It takes teamwork, a relentless commitment to excellence and the North Dakota spirit.
This past year, I was grateful to receive numerous endorsements and recognition for my work on the commission, including the prestigious North Dakota Rural Electric Cooperatives “Helping Hand Award” for support of rural cooperatives across our state.
North Dakota will always be home to me. While I’m proud of my professional accomplishments, I’m even prouder — and at the same time humbled — to represent the Republican Party and strong conservative values in our state.
As a Christian, father, businessman, outdoorsman and landowner who has spent my entire career working in our state since receiving my education at NDSU, I can’t imagine a better place to live, work and raise a family.
Thank you for all you do to support candidates like myself. Simply put, we can’t do it without you!
