 by John Alexander, Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs The recent elections have ushered in a new group of leaders to the North Dakota House of Representatives, each poised to make significant contributions to our state's future. As members of the Dakota Credit Union Association, it's essential for us to become acquainted with these individuals. Their policies and decisions will shape the legislative landscape and impact our communities, economies, and the credit union movement we are deeply invested in. Why This Matters to You Understanding who represents us at the state level is crucial because their actions directly affect our daily lives. These representatives will address issues related to economic growth, education, healthcare, and community development—all areas that influence the well-being of our families and the vitality of our credit unions. By familiarizing ourselves with their backgrounds and priorities, we can better engage in the legislative process, advocate for policies that support our interests, and ensure that our voices are heard. Staying informed empowers us to contribute to a stronger, more prosperous North Dakota for everyone. Dan Vollmer – District 6. Vollmer steps into the role of State Representative for District 6 with a strong background in agriculture and banking. A fifth-generation North Dakotan, he grew up on the family farm in Willow City and continues to reside there with his wife, LeAnn. Vollmer holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences from North Dakota State University and is a graduate of the School of Banking at the University of Colorado. With over 40 years in the community banking industry, he has served on the Board of Directors of the North Dakota Bankers Association and has been active in various community organizations. Vollmer's legislative priorities include promoting conservative pro-growth policies that support businesses and farms, individual freedoms, limited government, fiscal responsibility, free markets, and energy development in North Dakota.  Jared Hendrix – District 10. Hendrix steps into the role of State Representative for District 10 with a strong background in political organization and grassroots activism. Prior to his election, he served as the executive director of the North Dakota Republican Party, where he was instrumental in coordinating statewide campaigns and fostering party growth. Hendrix holds a degree in political science and has been actively involved in community initiatives focused on civic engagement and voter education. He advocates for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and policies that promote individual liberties.  Nels Christianson – District 18. Christianson brings a wealth of experience in education and community service to his new role as State Representative for District 18. With a background as an educator and school administrator, Christianson has dedicated his career to improving educational outcomes for students in North Dakota. He holds a master's degree in educational leadership and has served on various local boards and committees aimed at enhancing community development. Christianson is committed to advancing policies that support public education, workforce development, and economic growth within his district.  Daniel Johnston – District 24. Johnston brings a diverse background in agriculture, business, and public service to his role as State Representative for District 24. A resident of Kathryn, North Dakota, he manages a family farm and operates a small business, providing him with a deep understanding of rural community challenges. Johnston holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Accounting and Religion, and a Master of Public Policy in Public Administration, both from Liberty University. He previously served in the North Dakota House of Representatives from 2016 to 2020, participating in committees such as Education and Government and Veterans Affairs. Re-elected in 2024, Johnston is committed to advancing policies that support agriculture, small businesses, and economic development within his district.  Roger Maki – District 26. Maki enters the North Dakota House of Representatives for District 26 with a background in agriculture and rural development. As a lifelong farmer, Maki understands the challenges and opportunities facing North Dakota's agricultural sector. He has served on the board of the local farmers' cooperative and has been a vocal advocate for sustainable farming practices and rural infrastructure development. Maki is committed to advancing policies that support the agricultural community, improve rural healthcare access, and enhance educational opportunities in his district.  Ty Dressler – District 36 (no photo available). Dressler brings a diverse background in law enforcement and public safety to his new role as State Representative for District 36. With over two decades of experience as a police officer, Dressler has firsthand knowledge of the public safety issues facing North Dakota communities. He has been involved in various community outreach programs aimed at building trust between law enforcement and residents. Dressler holds a degree in criminal justice and is focused on promoting policies that enhance public safety, support law enforcement, and address the opioid crisis affecting his district. Christina Wolff – District 38. Wolff steps into the role of State Representative for District 38 with a strong background in small business ownership and community involvement. As a small business owner in Minot since 2011, Wolff has demonstrated a commitment to local economic development. She has been actively engaged in political organizations, serving as the secretary of District 38 for three years and as president of the North Central Republican Women. Wolff is dedicated to advancing policies that ensure responsible state spending and support the growth of local businesses within her district  Macy Bolinske – District 40. Bolinske brings a background in education and youth development to her new role as State Representative for District 40. As a former paraprofessional within the Minot Public School District and a coach for girls' basketball at Bishop Ryan and Minot High School, she has dedicated her career to mentoring young people and promoting educational excellence. Bolinske holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Dakota, graduating summa cum laude. She has been actively involved in local youth programs, including serving on the board for the North Dakota Miss Amazing pageant, a competition for women and girls with disabilities. She advocates for policies that support public education funding, enhance extracurricular opportunities for students, and promote workforce readiness programs to prepare young people for successful careers.  Doug Osowski – District 42. Osowski enters the North Dakota House of Representatives for District 42 with a background in business and community leadership. As a small business owner, Osowski understands the challenges and opportunities facing entrepreneurs in North Dakota. He has served on the local chamber of commerce and has been a proponent of initiatives aimed at fostering economic development and job creation. Osowski holds a degree in business management and is focused on advancing policies that reduce taxes, streamline regulations, and support the growth of small businesses within his district.  Austin Foss – District 44. Foss brings a background in technology and innovation to his new role as State Representative for District 44. With experience in the tech industry, Foss has been involved in developing solutions aimed at improving efficiency and connectivity. He has also served on advisory boards for local tech startups.  Desiree Morton – District 46. Morton steps into the role of State Representative for District 46 with a strong background in community service and leadership. Born and raised in south Fargo, North Dakota, she graduated from Fargo South High School and earned a bachelor's degree in education from North Dakota State University in 1981. She has been actively involved in organizations such as the FM Pickleball Club and Ruby's Pantry, reflecting her commitment to community engagement. As a homemaker who homeschooled her five children, she brings a unique perspective to the legislative process, advocating for policies that enhance the quality of life for her constituents. FINAL REMINDER: Roughly one week left as the Holiday Sweepstakes ends on November 27! The winners will be announced on December 12 at 3:00 p.m. (CT). Make sure to enter here for a chance to win $5,000 worth of prizes! As always, don’t hesitate to contact me with any advocacy questions or concerns. Comments are closed.
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