West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis Won't Seek Reelection

Longtime mayor announces he will not run again in upcoming election.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Bernie Dardis, the current mayor of West Fargo, North Dakota, has announced that he will not be seeking reelection in the upcoming June election. Dardis has served as mayor for several years and cited the honor and privilege of serving the city, while also noting the bright future that lies ahead for West Fargo.

Why it matters

Dardis' decision not to run again opens up the mayoral seat in West Fargo, a growing city in North Dakota. His announcement comes shortly after former city commissioner Eric Gjerdevig announced a run for the mayor's office, signaling a potential shift in the city's political leadership.

The details

In a statement to local news outlet Flag Family News, Dardis said, 'I announced today that I am not seeking re-election. It has been a great honor and privilege to serve on the West Fargo City Commission and as Mayor. The future of West Fargo is bright.' Dardis has served as mayor of West Fargo for several years.

  • Dardis announced he will not seek reelection on February 19, 2026.
  • The West Fargo mayoral election is scheduled for June 2026.

The players

Bernie Dardis

The current mayor of West Fargo, North Dakota, who has announced he will not seek reelection in the upcoming June 2026 election.

Eric Gjerdevig

A former West Fargo city commissioner who has announced a run for mayor in the upcoming June 2026 election.

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What they’re saying

“I announced today that I am not seeking re-election. It has been a great honor and privilege to serve on the West Fargo City Commission and as Mayor. The future of West Fargo is bright.”

— Bernie Dardis, Mayor of West Fargo (Flag Family News)

What’s next

The West Fargo mayoral election is scheduled for June 2026, and with Dardis' announcement, the race is now open for new candidates to come forward.

The takeaway

Dardis' decision not to seek reelection as West Fargo's mayor marks the end of an era and opens the door for new leadership in the growing North Dakota city. The upcoming election will be an important one for West Fargo's future direction.