Ag commissioner challenger highlights data centers; incumbent calls move ‘grandstanding’

By: Jeff Beach

Outlets: North Dakota Monitor

Published: September 28, 2026

Words: 937

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 3 days ago

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Vern Thompson is challenging Doug Goehring for North Dakota agriculture commissioner, but has been most vocal about controversial data center plans in the state.

Thompson, a Democrat, said he is running in part because the ag commissioner is one of three members of North Dakota’s Industrial Commission, which has committed to supporting a natural gas pipeline that Thompson said will ultimately benefit data centers.

But many residents are apprehensive about …

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