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Ag commissioner candidates spar over energy, agriculture and personnel

The two candidates for North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner squared off in their first formal debate.

The debate was held in Bismarck, and sponsored by the North Dakota Newspaper Association.

Republican Incumbent Doug Goehring and Democratic challenger Ryan Taylor talked about agriculture and energy policy. The Agriculture Commissioner is a member of the state Industrial Commission, which oversees oil and gas development. And Goehring said North Dakota does very well in balancing energy and agriculture.

"The Secretary of the Interior said that we have the most sophisticated oil and gas rules in the nation," said Goehring. "We have the most comprehensive oil and gas rules in the nation to protect our resource. But we also know the market drives the issue."

Taylor said the rules may be good – but they’re not enforced.

"If we look at the Industrial Commission's actions of writing down fines by 90 percent, of not enforcing the laws on flaring, companies are not complying with the rules," said Taylor. "Those are actions the Industrial Commission should be taking."

Taylor also criticized Goehring for having a high turnover rate in the Agriculture Department. Figures show that in a 61 person department, 43 employees have left. Goehring says some of those are from retirement, but others find higher-paying jobs outside of state government.

"Retention  and recruitment are a challenge," said Goehring. "I'm not going to apologize for hiring good people that other people want."

Earlier, Goehring faced complaints on how he was treating some of his female staff members. And Taylor referred to those complaints.

"I wouldn't have to go to training to know how to treat people or talk to people, regardless of gender," said Taylor. "I know that when people come to work, they ought to be respected."

Taylor suggested that he and Goehring debate often between now an the November election. Goehring said he would check his availability.