Meet Steve
Steve Thoring is a Williston resident and a candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives in District 1. A proud graduate of Williston High School, Steve went on to earn an Associate Degree in Electrical Technology from the State College of Science in Wahpeton.
Steve began his career as an electrician, a path that took him to the Homestake Mine in Lead, South Dakota. There, he worked underground and served on the mine rescue team, gaining firsthand experience in the demanding and often dangerous conditions faced by working families in the region. His commitment to safety and public service later led him to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), where he served on the national mine rescue team and worked as a fatal accident investigator.
Rooted deeply in the Williston community, Steve has built his life and raised his family here. His daughter and grandchildren also call Williston home. Like many in District 1, Steve’s family has thrived through hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
Steve is running to bring that same work ethic, practical experience, and commitment to public service to the North Dakota Legislature – advocating for safe workplaces, strong communities, and opportunities for future generations.
Legislative Priorities
Steve Thoring is running to stand up for working families and make sure our communities have what they need to succeed. His focus is on practical solutions that strengthen schools, support local jobs, and keep families safe and secure.
Investing in Public Education
Steve believes every child deserves a good education, no matter where they live. Our public schools are the backbone of our communities, and they need strong, reliable support. Steve will work to ensure schools are properly funded, support teachers, and expand career and technical education so students are ready for whatever path they choose.
Expanding Access to Affordable Healthcare
In rural North Dakota, access to healthcare is not a given. Steve will work to protect local hospitals, support rural clinics, and make sure emergency services have the resources they need. He believes families should be able to get quality care close to home without worrying about the cost.
Standing Up for Workers
Steve has spent his career in tough, hands-on jobs, and he knows how important it is to feel safe and respected at work. He will stand up for fair wages, safe working conditions, and policies that protect workers while keeping our industries strong.
Supporting Small Businesses and Local Jobs
Local businesses are what keep our communities going. Steve will support efforts to help small businesses grow, create good-paying jobs, and keep our local economy strong. He believes in cutting unnecessary barriers while making sure growth benefits the whole community.
Lowering Costs for Families
Families are feeling the strain of rising costs. Steve will support efforts to make healthcare more affordable, expand housing options, and ease the financial pressure on working families.
Strong Communities and Infrastructure
Steve knows that strong communities depend on reliable infrastructure and public services. He will support investments in roads, utilities, and public safety, and make sure rural communities are not overlooked.
Endorsements
Endorsements from organizations and community leaders will be announced as our campaign continues to build – stay tuned!
District 1 Information
District 1 is centered in and around Williston in northwest North Dakota, a region shaped by hard work, strong families, and a changing economy. From agriculture to energy production in the Bakken, the people of this district play a key role in powering our state and supporting its growth.
Over the past decade, the area has seen rapid population growth and economic change. With that growth has come new opportunities, but also real challenges. Families are dealing with the rising cost of housing, pressure on local schools, and the need for reliable healthcare and emergency services that can keep up with demand.
District 1 is home to a younger and increasingly diverse workforce, with many residents working in skilled trades, energy, construction, and service industries. It is a community made up of longtime residents as well as people who have come here seeking opportunity and a better life for their families.
Voters in District 1 care about practical issues that affect daily life: good-paying jobs, safe workplaces, strong public schools, and access to affordable healthcare close to home. They value independence, hard work, and leaders who understand what it means to live and work in western North Dakota.
This is a district that expects common sense, accountability, and a commitment to putting local communities first.
Contact Steve
Thoring Campaign
1002 7th Ave West
Williston, ND 58801
sthoring51@gmail.com
(605) 786-6093