North Dakotans Urged to Vote in Upcoming Local Elections

AARP and local organizations host candidate forums to help voters make informed choices on June 9

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:00am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a lone ballot box or voting booth set against a backdrop of warm, golden sunlight and deep shadows, conveying the contemplative and civic-minded atmosphere of a local election.The quiet, contemplative mood of a local election polling place reflects the importance of each individual vote in shaping a community's future.Fargo Today

Older voters in North Dakota are being encouraged to participate in the upcoming local elections on June 9, where they will choose mayors, city and county commissioners, and school and park board members. AARP, the League of Women Voters, and other local organizations are hosting a series of candidate forums in Fargo, Mandan, and Bismarck to help voters learn about the candidates and issues. Voting in local elections is seen as a direct way for residents to influence the priorities and services in their communities.

Why it matters

Local elections have a direct and immediate impact on everyday issues like property taxes, public safety, infrastructure, and community programs. Older voters make up a significant portion of the electorate, and their participation can sway the outcome of these races, which are often decided by a relatively small number of votes.

The details

The candidate forums will cover a range of local races, including city commissions, mayoral races, park boards, and school boards. The forums will be held in Fargo, Mandan, and Bismarck, and will be open to the public to attend in person or watch live online. Voters are encouraged to learn about the candidates, their platforms, and the key issues facing their communities before heading to the polls on June 9.

  • The local elections in North Dakota will be held on June 9, 2026.
  • Candidate forums are scheduled throughout April and May 2026 in Fargo, Mandan, and Bismarck.

The players

AARP

A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that advocates for the interests of Americans aged 50 and older.

League of Women Voters

A nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government.

Bismarck Tribune

A daily newspaper serving the Bismarck-Mandan metropolitan area.

Bismarck Mandan Chamber | EDC

The local chamber of commerce and economic development organization for the Bismarck-Mandan region.

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What’s next

Voters in North Dakota can check their voting options, view their local ballots, and learn more about the candidates at the upcoming forums by visiting aarp.org/vote and sos.nd.gov/elections.

The takeaway

Local elections have a profound impact on the daily lives of residents, and older voters in North Dakota have an opportunity to shape their communities by participating in the upcoming June 9 elections. The candidate forums hosted by AARP and other organizations provide a valuable resource for voters to make informed choices.