New League of Women Voters Chapters Aim to Boost Voter Engagement in North Dakota

Nonpartisan organization sees renewed enthusiasm for voter outreach ahead of midterm elections

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The League of Women Voters North Dakota is establishing new local chapters in Williston and the greater Grand Forks area, aiming to increase voter engagement and education ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The organization says it wants to ensure all community members feel empowered to participate in the democratic process, beyond just voting.

Why it matters

Voter turnout in North Dakota has historically been lower in some regions, and the League hopes these new chapters can help address that by providing resources and training to get more people involved in the electoral process. The organization also wants to educate voters on recent changes like redistricting and new voting laws.

The details

The new Williston chapter is close to being finalized, which would bring the total number of local League chapters in North Dakota to five. The Grand Forks-area chapter formed last year and has been working to 'ignite' the community and emphasize that everyone has a role to play in democracy, beyond just voting. This includes training volunteers on de-escalation techniques and helping organize candidate forums. The League never endorses candidates or parties, but it will speak up on policy issues it sees as threats to democracy, such as supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives.

  • The new Williston chapter is close to being finalized.
  • The Grand Forks-area chapter formed last year.

The players

League of Women Voters North Dakota

A nonpartisan organization that works to engage and educate voters, without endorsing candidates or political parties.

Miranda Nechepurenko

President of the League of Women Voters chapter in the Grand Forks area, who is working to increase voter turnout and involvement in the democratic process.

Katherine Rogne

A trailblazer who traveled around North Dakota in the 1950s organizing League of Women Voters chapters across the state.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're just trying to really ignite our community members and let everyone realize that they have a role.”

— Miranda Nechepurenko, President, League of Women Voters Grand Forks chapter

“I don't think sticking up for human rights should be a partisan issue.”

— Miranda Nechepurenko, President, League of Women Voters Grand Forks chapter

What’s next

The new Williston chapter of the League of Women Voters North Dakota is close to being officially recognized by the national organization, which would bring the total number of local chapters in the state to five.

The takeaway

The League of Women Voters' renewed efforts to establish new chapters and engage voters across North Dakota, especially in areas with historically lower turnout, demonstrate a commitment to strengthening democracy and ensuring all community members feel empowered to participate in the electoral process.