From Journalism to Public Service
Born in Williston and a fourth-generation North Dakotan, Julie Fedorchak's path to Washington wasn't a direct one. She graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in journalism and began her career in communications. Her first major role in state government came in the 1990s as communications director for then-Governor Ed Schafer. After her time in the governor's office, she started her own communications business, wrote a newspaper column, and even co-authored three books. She returned to public service to work as the state director for U.S. Senator John Hoeven before being appointed to a statewide office that would define her career for over a decade.
A Decade as an Energy Regulator
In late 2012, Governor Jack Dalrymple appointed Fedorchak to the North Dakota
Public Service Commission (PSC), a powerful three-person body that regulates key state industries, most notably the energy sector. She was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Kevin Cramer upon his election to Congress—the very seat she would later win herself. During her 12 years on the PSC, Fedorchak oversaw a period of massive growth in North Dakota's energy industry, permitting over $10 billion in infrastructure projects. Her work focused on ensuring reliable and affordable energy, and North Dakota maintained some of the lowest utility rates in the country during her tenure. Her expertise gained national recognition, leading to her serving as president of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC).
The Leap to National Politics
In 2024, Fedorchak entered a crowded Republican primary to represent North Dakota's at-large congressional district. She ran on a platform focused on curbing inflation, unleashing American energy production, and securing the border. After a competitive race, she won the Republican nomination and went on to win the general election in November 2024, becoming the first woman elected to the U.S. House from North Dakota. Upon arriving in Congress, she secured a coveted spot on the influential House Committee on Energy and Commerce—a natural fit given her background. She was the first freshman member appointed to the committee in 14 years.
Key Policy Stances and Priorities
Fedorchak's policy positions align with her background as a conservative from a major energy state. Her top priorities include promoting domestic energy production and reducing what she sees as burdensome federal regulations. She advocates for an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy that supports both fossil fuels and renewables, but emphasizes that sustainability must not come at the cost of affordability or grid reliability. Beyond energy, Fedorchak has focused on border security, voting in favor of legislation like the Laken Riley Act. She identifies as pro-life and a staunch defender of the Second Amendment. Her campaign and official messaging consistently call for fiscal restraint, a balanced budget, and reducing government overreach.
