Fargo City Commissioner Turnberg announces mayoral run

Turnberg is one of five candidates vying to replace outgoing Mayor Tim Mahoney.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, photorealistic painting of a government building in Fargo, North Dakota, with warm light and deep shadows creating a contemplative, nostalgic mood.The Fargo mayoral election will determine the city's leadership and priorities for the next several years.Fargo Today

City Commissioner Michelle Turnberg has announced her candidacy for mayor of Fargo, North Dakota. Turnberg, a former TV news anchor and medical equipment industry professional, is one of five candidates running to replace outgoing Mayor Tim Mahoney, who has served the maximum number of terms.

Why it matters

Fargo's mayoral election is an important local race that will determine the city's leadership and priorities for the next several years. Turnberg's entry into the race adds another experienced candidate to the field, which also includes other current and former city officials.

The details

Turnberg announced her mayoral bid in a social media post shortly before the filing deadline on Monday afternoon. She is currently serving her first term as a city commissioner. If elected mayor, a special election would be required to fill her commission seat. The other candidates in the race are City Commissioners Dave Piepkorn and Denise Kolpack, State Senator Josh Boschee, and Fargo Human Rights Commissioner Sekou Sirleaf.

  • Turnberg announced her candidacy on April 6, 2026.
  • The Fargo mayoral election is scheduled for June 9, 2026.

The players

Michelle Turnberg

A current Fargo City Commissioner and former TV news anchor who is running for mayor.

Tim Mahoney

The outgoing mayor of Fargo who has served the maximum number of terms.

Dave Piepkorn

A Fargo City Commissioner who is also running for mayor.

Denise Kolpack

A Fargo City Commissioner who is also running for mayor.

Josh Boschee

A State Senator who is running for Fargo mayor.

Sekou Sirleaf

The Fargo Human Rights Commissioner who is running for mayor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm excited to announce my candidacy for Fargo mayor. As a city commissioner, I've worked hard to address the needs of our community, and I'm ready to take on the challenges of leading our city forward.”

— Michelle Turnberg, Fargo City Commissioner

What’s next

The Fargo mayoral election is scheduled for June 9, 2026. If Turnberg is elected, a special election would be required to fill her city commission seat.

The takeaway

Turnberg's entry into the Fargo mayoral race adds another experienced candidate with a background in local government and community leadership. The crowded field of candidates reflects the importance of this election in shaping the city's future direction.