Williston North Dakota Candidate Forums Give Residents Insight Before June Primary

The last couple of nights in Williston proved to be both informative and interesting as local residents gathered to hear directly from the people hoping to represent them in upcoming state, county, and city races. With the June 9, 2026, primary election quickly approaching, the candidate forums hosted by the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce gave voters a valuable opportunity to learn more about the individuals whose names will soon appear on the ballot.

Held at the Williston State College Healthcare Training Facility, the two-night event brought together candidates from a wide range of races. The forums featured moderated discussions, timed responses, and questions submitted by community members, creating an organized and respectful environment for candidates to share their priorities and vision for the future.

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Legislative and County Candidates Take Center Stage

The first forum, held May 5th, focused on North Dakota legislative races and Williams County positions. Candidates for State Senate and State Representative discussed topics ranging from infrastructure and economic development to agriculture, education, taxes, and public safety.

Candidates participating in legislative races included Brad Bekkedahl for State Senator in District 1 and Todd Beard for State Senator in District 23.

State Representative candidates included Laurie Garbel, Alex Johnson, David Richter, and Steve Thoring for District 1, along with Mark Casler, Corey Johnson, Sharlet Mohr, Dennis Nehring, and Michael A. Steele for District 23.

County-level races also drew attention during the evening. Candidates for Williams County Commissioner included Beau Anderson, Cory Hanson, Carla Couture, and Barry Ramberg. Beth M. Innis appeared unopposed for Williams County Auditor, while Jaakan Williams is running for Williams County State’s Attorney. Terri Bendixson is seeking the Williams County Treasurer/Recorder position. The Williams County Sheriff race features Momcilo Babic and Verlan Kvande.

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Local Candidates Showed Up For Night Two

The second forum, held on May 6th, shifted focus toward city leadership and the future of Williston. Residents heard from candidates running for Williston City Commission President and City Commission seats.

Candidates for Commission President included James Bervig, Shawn Roness, Cory Swint, and Mason White. Running for Williston City Commission are Matthew Clark, Heidi Johnson, and Howard Klug.

Throughout both evenings, candidates emphasized many of the same themes—continued growth, infrastructure improvements, responsible budgeting, economic development, and maintaining the quality of life that residents expect in western North Dakota. While candidates often approached issues differently, the forums allowed voters to hear those differences firsthand rather than through campaign ads or social media posts.

One thing became clear over the course of the two nights: local elections matter. The people elected in June will help shape decisions involving roads, schools, public safety, city planning, and the overall direction of Williston and Williams County for years to come.

For residents who attended, the forums offered a better understanding of the candidates and the issues facing the region. And for those still undecided, the events served as an important reminder that Election Day is approaching quickly.