FARGO, N.D. – State Senator Kristin Roers, State Representative Greg Stemen, and Shawn Kessel today announced their 2026 campaign for the North Dakota Legislature in District 27 representing southwest Fargo. In their announcement, they highlighted their shared commitment to strong conservative values, public service, and delivering commonsense results for the people of District 27 and the entire state of North Dakota.

Senator Roers, first elected in 2018, has built a reputation as a steady, solutions-focused leader in the Capitol. She brings her background in healthcare, economics, and public service to every decision she makes and has championed efforts to reduce property taxes, strengthen North Dakota’s workforce, modernize regulations, and ensure government works efficiently for families and businesses.

“My entire career—both inside and outside the Capitol—has been about serving people,” Roers said. “I am running for reelection because I want to continue to help our community thrive. When we work together, when we lift each other up, we can find practical solutions that make life better for every family in our district.”

Joining Senator Roers in announcing his reelection bid is State Representative Greg Stemen, a proven leader and advocate for small businesses, public safety, and conservative, commonsense governance. Since being appointed in 2020, Stemen has brought decades of experience in education, banking, and community service to his work in the North Dakota House. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, he has played a key role in shaping responsible budgets, advancing meaningful property tax relief, and strengthening public safety through strategic investments in the state’s correctional system.

Stemen said he is running for reelection to continue fighting for a strong, safe, and prosperous North Dakota. “North Dakota succeeds when we stay focused on results, not rhetoric,” Stemen said. “I’m committed to supporting our small businesses, strengthening our energy infrastructure, and protecting the freedoms and values that make our state exceptional. It’s been an honor to serve District 27, and I’m ready to keep delivering real results for the families who call this community home.”

Rounding out the district 27 ticket is Shawn Kessel, who is seeking his first term in the North Dakota House of Representatives. Kessel brings more than two decades of experience across both the public and private sectors, including service as city administrator in Wahpeton and Dickinson during periods of significant growth, as well as leadership roles at the North Dakota Department of Commerce. His background in economic development, community planning, and strategic resource management gives him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rapidly growing districts like District 27.

Kessel said he is running for the House to help guide smart growth, expand economic opportunity, and ensure families have access to affordable housing, childcare, and the infrastructure needed to thrive. “District 27 deserves a representative who can get to work on day one,” Kessel said. “I’ve spent my career solving complex problems for North Dakota communities, and I’ll bring that same commonsense leadership to the Legislature. My focus is simple: listen well, lead with integrity, and deliver real results for the people who call this district home.”

The district 27 team will officially launch their campaign at a kickoff event on December 18th. and they invite supporters, neighbors, and community members to join them. The event will be an opportunity to meet the candidates, hear their vision for the district’s future, and get engaged in the work ahead. All are welcome as Senator Roers, Representative Stemen, and Shawn Kessel begin the next chapter of service to the people of District 27.

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