Rebecca Binstock, executive director of the North Dakota Ethics Commission, speaks during a committee hearing on Jan. 31, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)
BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) – North Dakota is accepting applications for two seats on the state Ethics Commission.
The board is looking for a commissioner to replace Chair Cynthia Lindquist, who announced last month she will leave effective June 1 for a new job. Lindquist is moving to Colorado to become the chief strategy officer for the American Indian College Fund.
Lindquist’s successor would serve in the role until August 2027, when her term ends.
Applicants can also apply for the seat held by Commissioner Mark Western, whose term ends August 2026.
Western, a Fargo attorney and professional mediator, is applying to be reappointed to the position, which has a four-year term.
Western joined the commission last year to fill the vacancy left by former Chair Dave Anderson, who died in May.
Commissioners’ duties include adopting ethics rules, investigating alleged violations and issuing advisory opinions to help public officials navigate ethical issues. They are paid a stipend for every day they meet, plus reimbursement for travel. Applicants don’t need a background in government, law or ethics.
Some people are barred under state law from serving on the Ethics Commission. These include:
- elected or appointed state officials, lobbyists and political party officials
- candidates for statewide office
- legislative employees
Those interested in serving on the commission can learn more on the governor’s office’s website. The deadline to apply is April 30.
Commissioners are selected by a consensus vote of the governor, Senate majority leader and Senate minority leader.
The Ethics Commission sent a letter last month to the members of the selection committee in support of Western’s reappointment.
The commission gained three new commissioners last year: Western, Pam Sharp and Jared Huigbretse.
The selection committee for months was at an impasse over whether to re-appoint or replace former commissioner Murray Sagsveen. Gov. Kelly Armstrong wanted Sagsveen off the board, saying the commission needs a “general reset.” Armstrong’s comments followed months of public disagreement between the commission and executive branch over the scope of the board’s authority. Sagsveen eventually withdrew his name from consideration.
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