Fargo, N.D. – The North Dakota League of Women Voters is asking all three of the state’s congressional members to contact them to plan future in-person town hall meetings.
The group held a Friday press conference at the Sons of Norway Kringen Lodge in Fargo to invite Republican Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak and GOP Senators Kevin Cramer And John Hoeven to join them in arranging such meetings.
“The people of North Dakota are ready to be heard” said LWV North Dakota’s vice president Mary Tintes. “The question is are our representatives ready to listen.”
Earlier this year, Republicans were reportedly advised to stop holding in-person sessions over safety concerns.
Tintes argued too many lawmakers are avoiding hearing from their constituents on issues.
“This reduces the ability of voters to hold their elected officials accountable and weakens democracy,” said Tintes.
Tintes did acknowledge and “appreciated any effort” Fedorchak has made by hosting recent tele-town halls.
But Tintes questioned the registration process and how questions are selected.
Fedorchak has previously said in-person sessions have been unproductive and unsafe since President Trump took office.
Hoeven says he holds public meetings all over the state that anyone can attend.
And Cramer, who also does telephone town halls, has previously expressed openness to finding a way to hold in-person versions.
