Rooted in Watford City, Brent Schwan enters race for District 26 House Seat
Patrice Bumstead
Farmer Editor
WATFORD CITY, N.D. - For Brent Schwan, deciding to run for the North Dakota House of Representatives wasn’t about chasing political ambition. It was about home.
A long-time Watford City resident, Schwan announced this week that he is seeking the open House seat in District 26, a region he has spent decades working in, raising a family in, and helping guide through times of rapid change.
“Watford City and the surrounding communities hold special significance to my family and our state,” Schwan said in announcing his candidacy. “Our area needs a conservative leader who knows how special these communities are and will go to Bismarck to fight for us.”
Schwan’s connection to western North Dakota runs deep. A graduate of Williston High School, he went on to earn degrees in Business Administration and Accounting from Dickinson State University. His professional career has spanned public service, energy, and finance - industries that have shaped the economic fortunes of McKenzie County and much of the Bakken region.
Those experiences, Schwan said, have given him a firsthand understanding of the challenges rural communities face as they balance growth with long‑term stability.
“With a career in natural resources and finance, I know the challenges that our communities face,” he said. “As a father and grandfather, I’m personally invested in addressing them so our next generation can continue to call western North Dakota home.”
If elected, Schwan says his priorities will center on strengthening the state’s small‑business and industrial environment, protecting private property and agricultural rights, and supporting responsible development of North Dakota’s natural resources. He has also emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment, affordable housing, and maintaining appropriate gross production tax funding for local communities - issues that have increasingly affected Watford City as it continues to grow.
Community leaders say Schwan’s long history of involvement and steady presence make him well‑suited for the role.
State Senator Dale Patten, who represents the area, was among the first to endorse Schwan following the announcement.
“I have witnessed Brent’s passion for natural resources, energy, and business, along with his commitment to our community,” Patten said. “He understands the issues affecting our district and has the relationships to be an effective leader in the legislature for the people of District 26.”
Watford City Mayor Phil Riely echoed that sentiment, pointing to Schwan’s ability to navigate complex issues while listening to differing viewpoints.
“His background in finance and state and local government, along with his ability to understand complex challenges, will be a strong asset in Bismarck,” Riely said. “Brent will be a trusted voice for our families and future generations.”
Longtime community members Steve and Gretchen Stenehjem also offered their support, describing Schwan as someone who leads by listening.
“We know he will work hard every day to represent the needs of all the people of District 26,” they said. “He is a great listener, a collaborator, and always keeps the best interests of our district front and center.”
At home, Schwan and his wife, Marella, have been married for 33 years. Together, they raised two daughters and are now grandparents to five - another tie, he says, that keeps the future of the region personal rather than political.
As the campaign begins, Schwan says his focus will remain on conversations with neighbors, business owners, farmers, and families across the district - many of whom he has known for decades.
“These communities have given so much to my family,” he said. “Now, I want to make sure their voices are heard.”
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