BISMARCK – Affordability of insurance, competition in the marketplace and accessibility in the North Dakota insurance commissioner's office are among the things Jon Godfread said he would promote if elected to lead the state agency.
Godfread kicked off his campaign, his first attempt at statewide office, at North Dakota Republican Party headquarters Wednesday morning.
Godfread, vice president of governmental affairs for the Greater North Dakota Chamber, said in a phone interview that his experience in his current role provides him with a unique ability to bridge the gap between consumers and business and insurance providers.
"The biggest threat to small businesses in our state is the rising costs of insurance," said Godfread, adding that rising costs can make the difference between expanding a business or being crippled and having to close.
"I've (also) got an eye for the consumer," Godfread said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Godfread, 33, is the first candidate to enter the race to replace Republican incumbent Adam Hamm, who chose not to seek another term. Hamm was appointed in 2007 and won four-year terms in 2008 and 2012.
It's important to continue the job of keeping residents and businesses aware of their insurance options and to maintain its affordability, said Godfread, who added that he will be accessible to residents.
"One thing I do very well is we can sit down and have conversation," Godfread said.
The North Dakota Insurance Department has a 2015-17 budget of more than $11.5 million and nearly 50 staff members.
No Democratic-NPL Party candidates have announced for the race. Fargo resident Nick Bata is running on the Libertarian Party ticket.
