We have heard a great deal of talk about the character of the candidates in this election, both at the federal and state level. The operative phrase, especially for the Presidential candidates, has been flip-flop. That is one phrase that has never been said in reference to Brian Kalk, who is running for the Public Service Commission seat being vacated by Susan Wefald.

From the day Kalk declared his candidacy for the PSC, after Wefald announced that she would not run for another term, he has been consistent in his views and proposals to move North Dakota and our country closer to energy independence. He stated that energy independence is not only vital to North Dakota's economy and future, but is a vital national security concern for the United States. Brian Kalk knows national security. For 20 years, he made our nation's security his number one concern, as a United States marine.So, when he says we must be energy independent, he is speaking from two decades of service and experience.

Dr. Kalk, who has his PhD in natural resource management from North Dakota State University, has consistently stated his support for increased fossil fuel production, increased renewable fuels production and increased ability to move the energy that we produce, to consumers and industries in North Dakota and around the nation and world. That means greater transmission and delivery capabilities for coal, oil, gas, wind, biofuels, ethanol, water and new technologies now being developed.

He has also pointed out that there is a threat to our future energy growth. That threat comes from those who oppose any expansion of our energy production, in the form of lawsuits being filed, for the sole purpose of killing any expansion or growth in the energy sector. He has pledged to use his experience and unrivaled knowledge of all aspects of the areas covered by the PSC to keep North Dakota moving forward and producing the high quality jobs that will keep our young people, like me, in our state.

Brian Kalk has the background, he has the vision for our state and our country, he is the perfect fit to be our next Public Service Commissioner.