University hosts debate for North Dakota tribe's chairman race


Flyer for the chairman's debate at North Dakota State University on October 19.

The two candidates for chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation of North Dakota will meet in a public debate on October 19.


Mark Fox. Photo from Facebook

Mark Fox and Damon Williams are running to lead the tribe, which has seen an explosion in energy development in the last few years. They have agreed to answer questions from tribal members at North Dakota State University's Beckwith Recital Hall.


Damon Williams. Photo from Facebook

Fox, 52, has expressed concerns about energy development and told the Associated Press he wants to "slow it down." Williams, 45, favors more regulation but doesn't want to stop the growth, the AP reported.

Questions for the candidates can be submitted via email or through the Facebook page for the event. The debate will be moderated by Scott Satermo, a tribal member and NDSU alumnus.

The winner of the election will succeed Tex Hall, who has served three terms as chairman.

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