North Dakotans will head to the polls June 9 for the state’s primary election. Often overlooked, it’s important to the election cycle.
In 2024, about 63% of eligible voters participated in the general election. In contrast, only 19% turned out for the 2022 primary. It matters because primary voters determine which candidates appear on the November ballot. When the turnout is limited, fewer voters carry a lot of influence. Yet, primary elections are one of the most direct ways to shape North Dakota’s future policies.
For electric cooperative members, these elections carry added weight. Elected leaders shape policies affecting energy reliability, infrastructure investment and the vitality of rural communities.
Legislative races bring new faces
This year, voters will see legislative contests in the state’s 24 odd-numbered districts, and two additional seats in even-numbered districts due to resignations. The candidate field is finalized following the April 6 filing deadline. Several competitive primaries are expected and will help determine voters’ choices in November.
This cycle also marks a transition as legislative term limits begin to take effect. This means more resignations and more fresh faces will appear in the candidate pool. With higher turnover and fewer incumbents in some districts, primary elections play an even greater role in shaping the composition and experience of the N.D. Legislature.
Local elections and your future
Your primary vote is important. It determines which legislative candidates advance to November’s ballot, but also gives you the chance to elect your local leaders.
Candidates for city commissions, school boards and park boards are all elected through June’s primary election. These local elections often impact your daily life, more directly than legislative, statewide or national elections, because they shape the services and institutions people use every day.
School board members influence school quality, curriculum, property tax decisions and the future. City commissioners make infrastructure decisions about roads, public safety, utilities, zoning and community growth. Park board officials determine investments in recreation, youth programs, public spaces and community amenities.
All these decisions shape the quality of life and help make communities stronger places to live, work and raise families. Yet, too often, those decisions are determined by a small number of voters because of extremely low turnout at the polls.
Exercising your cooperative voice
Many electric cooperative members also elect board members at annual meetings in June, as member-owners guide the governance of their cooperative.
Unlike investor-owned utilities, electric cooperatives are owned by the members they serve and they are accountable to them. Board members make key decisions about electric service and the future of the cooperative.
Voting in cooperative elections matters. It strengthens local representation and preserves the member-driven model that has powered rural communities for generations.
Encourage voting in your community
Getting involved is the most effective way to make sure rural people are represented. North Dakota’s voting process makes participation straightforward. Early and absentee voting options provide flexibility for those unable to vote on Election Day.
Cooperative members and community leaders can also encourage voter participation by sharing educational resources and outreach tools available through the secretary of state’s office.
This primary election will help shape the direction for North Dakota’s energy policy, rural development and economic future. For those who depend on and support the cooperative model, staying informed and participating is not optional. It is essential.
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Zachary Smith is the government relations director for the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives. He works on legislative and policy issues at both the state and national levels, representing the interests of electric cooperative members and rural communities. He can be reached at zsmith@ndarec.com.
Public policy affects your co-op’s ability to deliver safe, reliable, affordable power. Vote with co-op priorities in mind to help protect access to dependable energy and smart solutions. Be a co-op voter. Visit vote.coop.
