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  "description": "Williston is the heart of North Dakota’s energy economy. The hardworking people of the Bakken have helped build our state into one of the top energy-producing areas in our country. I hope to bring more support and options to Northwestern ND if you choose me as your representative for District 23.",
  "path": "/building-a-stronger-future-for-northwestern-north-dakota/",
  "publishedAt": "2026-05-20T16:00:32.000Z",
  "site": "https://michaelsteelefornd.com",
  "tags": [
    "Donate"
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  "textContent": "As I have been working in the Bakken for the past 15 years, I’ve seen both the growth, as well as the challenges that have come with our oil boom. Our communities deserve to see more; reinvesting in the places and people who made this areas success possible.\n\n### As I work hard to earn your vote, here is what I believe we should focus on moving forward.\n\n  * **Reinvest oil revenues back into Williston and Western North Dakota**\n    * Improve roads, infrastructure, and public services\n    * Strengthen public safety and emergency response\n    * Support long-term economic stability\n  * **Protect and support workers**\n    * Defend fair wages and safe working conditions\n    * Support apprenticeships and workforce training\n    * Protect well-paying jobs that keep families here long-term\n\n\n\nFamilies across North Dakota are facing rising costs, making it harder to get ahead, all while having the resources to help. We need leadership that will make helping and investing in our families a top priority.\n\n  * **Lowering costs for working families**\n    * Expand access to affordable childcare\n    * Increase access to healthcare and housing\n    * Invest in safer, stronger communities\n  * **Addressing childcare crisis**\n    * Expand the Child Care Assistance Program\n    * Support new childcare providers and facility expansion\n    * Invest in the childcare workforce through better pay and retention programs\n    * Provide tax relief and incentives that help families afford care\n\n\n\nWe need to continue investing in our children and public schools. A strong community starts with strong public education.\n\n  * **Support for public education**\n    * Fully fund public schools\n    * Increase teacher pay and classroom resources\n    * Expand career and technical education opportunities\n    * Make college and workforce training more affordable\n\n\n\nAnd finally, _no child in North Dakota should ever go hungry_. In one of the wealthiest states in the nation, we can and should solve this problem.\n\n  * **Support universal school meals**\n    * Ensure every student has access to breakfast and lunch\n    * Reduce stigma and financial stress for families\n    * Improve student attendance, behavior, and academic performance\n\n\n\nNorth Dakota has the financial strength and ability to invest in us, our working families, students, and our communities.\n\n> It's time to make sure our resources are being used to build a stronger future for everyone.\n\nNo matter the amount, every donation helps bring choice to northwestern North Dakota.\n\n\n                            Donate\n                        \n\n## Sign up for Michael Steele for ND\n\nBuilding Stronger Communities in District 23\n\nJoin Today!\n\nEmail sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup.\n\nNo spam. Unsubscribe anytime.",
  "title": "Building a Stronger Future for Northwestern North Dakota",
  "updatedAt": "2026-05-20T16:00:32.267Z"
}