Bismarck N.D. - The North Dakota Ethics Commission is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Western as its newest commissioner. Mr. Western brings a unique and valued perspective to the Commission based on his many years of legal and volunteer experience. Mark was appointed on November 19, 2025, with his term commencing at that time. Mr. Western’s appointment is a one-year term, filling the unexpired term of Commissioner David Anderson who passed away in May 2025.
Mark Western is a native of Stanley, North Dakota. He received an undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education from Concordia College, Moorhead, MN, and then graduated from the University of North Dakota School of Law with distinction.
From 2001-2004 Mr. Western taught high school social studies and coached speech and cross country in Hayfield, MN. He also served as a member of the Hayfield City Council. Since 2007, Mark has been in private practice in Fargo and currently practices with the Fremstad Law Firm. His practice focuses on complex civil litigation and mediation.
Mr. Western has served in leadership positions on a variety of non-profit boards and volunteer service organizations including the North Dakota Lions Foundation and the Fargo Lions Club. He has also served as a staff member of American Legion North Dakota Boys State since 1996. Mark lives in West Fargo, North Dakota with his wife and their blended family of four school-age children.
Mr. Western’s many years of legal work and volunteer service demonstrate a deep commitment to his community and the people of North Dakota. He brings both valuable legal and leadership experience to the Commission. The Commission is excited to have Mark serve as its newest member.
Commissioners are appointed by consensus agreement of the governor, the majority leader of the senate, and the minority leader of the senate. The Commission wishes to thank Governor Armstrong, Majority Leader Hogue, and Minority Leader Hogan for appointing Mr. Western.