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ND DEM-NPL Convention is underway

Candidates and delegates from North Dakota's Democratic-NPL Party are gathered at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks to set the stage for this year's elections.

Events from the opening day included...

The endorsement Jean Brandt for the six-year Public Service Commission term.

That seat is now held by Republican Randy Christmann, who is seeking re-election.

Brandt is from Kramer, North Dakota – in Bottineau County. Brandt told the convention delegates she will give more than 100 percent to the race.

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North Dakota Democrats have chosen Casey Buchmann of Washburn to be their candidate for the remaining two years on former Public Service Commissioner Brian Kalk’s term.

Republican Brian Kroshus was appointed by Governor Burgum – and he has to run.

Buchmann is an iron worker. He says he wants to be a Commissioner who won’t be afraid to say “no” to the companies it regulates.

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State Senator Jim Dotzenrod has been endorsed by North Dakota Democrats to run for State Agriculture Commissioner.

He’s from Wyndmere. And he told the convention delegates he agreed to run because there are storm clouds on the horizon for agriculture – including trade agreements and the upcoming farm bill.

Dotzenrod will challenge incumbent Republican Doug Goehring.

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Organizers are looking to wrap up the business of the convention on Saturday.

North Dakota Republicans will also be holding their state convention in Grand Forks. The GOP will be meeting in 3 weeks.