John M Pederson

Background

Pederson is a history and economics professor at Mayville State University, where he has taught since 1998. A 2026 candidate profile says he is from Mayville, has served in leadership roles including on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s national governing body, and has two children.

Sources: North Dakota Living — Election 2026: The statewide candidates

What the candidate has said

Statements are attributed to the linked sources.

• Consumer protection

  He says the PSC should scrutinize major projects rather than treat them as automatic approvals, and that oversight should serve the public rather than developers.

  North Dakota Living — Election 2026: The statewide candidates

• Local input

  He says communities and ratepayers need a voice in decisions about data centers and related infrastructure, and supports long-term planning, coordination among decision-makers, and transparency.

  North Dakota Living — Election 2026: The statewide candidates

• Energy development

  He said he would put ratepayers first, seek meaningful public input, support responsible energy development, and require bonding to ensure proper decommissioning.

  Wahpeton Daily News — Eight statewide candidates speak at Wahpeton forum