News | April 8, 2026
Nyamal Dei, a nonprofit leader and current member of the Fargo Board of Education, has announced she is running as a Democrat for a seat in North Dakota’s Senate District 41.The district covers parts of south Fargo, mainly areas located south of Interstate 94 and east of Interstate 29.
Dei, whose term on the school board ends this summer, said she chose not to seek reelection in order to pursue what she described as a “greater opportunity” to serve the community at the state level.A former refugee from South Sudan, Dei was elected to the Fargo school board in 2022, making history as the first person of color elected to public office in the city in at least five decades, according to regional voting advocates.
Her time on the board drew significant public attention, particularly during debates over the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at meetings. Dei stood by her initial vote during the controversy, even as criticism mounted.
Now entering the state Senate race, Dei says her campaign will focus on improving education, easing the cost of living, supporting families and child care, and strengthening community safety.She framed her candidacy as both a reflection of community support and a forward-looking vision.
Dei also leads Kondial Kel International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting refugees and newcomers through education and community-based initiatives.Her campaign slogan, “A Brand New Day,” plays on the pronunciation of her last name while emphasizing a message of optimism and change.
