20-year-old Fargo man runs for mayor

Jake Coulter, a National Guardsman and recent high school graduate, announces his campaign for Fargo mayor.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:15pm

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Jake Coulter, a 20-year-old National Guardsman and Fargo Davies High School graduate, has announced his campaign for mayor of Fargo, North Dakota. Coulter says he was inspired to run after returning from military training, citing issues with city leadership and the use of tax incentives for businesses.

Why it matters

Coulter's candidacy at such a young age is notable, as he aims to bring a fresh perspective to Fargo's city government. His platform focuses on reforming the city's approach to tax incentives, which he believes have not always benefited the community as intended.

The details

Coulter told local radio host Jay Thomas that his run for mayor began after returning from military training, when he saw issues with how the city is being run. He believes the current city leaders "act on their own and don't use each other to be more successful." Coulter also takes issue with the city's use of tax incentives, saying he will be "very strict" on granting them to businesses that don't deliver on promised job creation.

  • Coulter announced his mayoral campaign after returning from military training.

The players

Jake Coulter

A 20-year-old National Guardsman and recent graduate of Fargo Davies High School who is running for mayor of Fargo, North Dakota.

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What they’re saying

“Once I got back from AIT, I had a new perspective on things. I saw issues within our city, especially when it comes to spending money and many of those things, and I was like, 'You know, I'm just going to try.'”

— Jake Coulter

“Many of our leaders, I feel like they act on their own and don't use each other to be more successful in the city.”

— Jake Coulter

“Honestly, we need to be very strict. And I will be very strict on giving any tax incentive.”

— Jake Coulter

The takeaway

Coulter's campaign for mayor at just 20 years old represents a new generation of political leadership in Fargo, with a focus on reforming the city's approach to economic development and tax incentives.