FARGO (AP) - The defeat of two female incumbents in Tuesday's election has left the Fargo and West Fargo city commissions with all male members for the first time in at least 16 years, a development some view as a setback for the communities.

Fargo City Commissioner Linda Coates and West Fargo City Commissioner Brenda Warren both said they do not think their gender played a role in their losses. "I believe people vote issues," Coates said.

Coates supported controversial issues such as a library expansion project. Warren had been a vocal supporter of a stricter citywide smoking ban.

"If there's any similarity between Brenda and me, it's a willingness to tackle difficult issues and take a stand that's sometimes unpopular, but what we truly feel is best for the community," Coates said.

Former Fargo city commissioner Arlette Preston, who unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 2006, said she believes the election results could discourage other women from running for future positions.

"I'm definitely disappointed," she said. "I really believe the commission needs to reflect what the community looks like, and it doesn't right now."

Dawn Morgan, who lost a bid for a Fargo City Commission seat in 2004, said the new makeup of the two commissions makes the communities "look a little backward."

Dave Piepkorn, the challenger who ousted Coates, said he does not think gender factored into the election.

"I think people were more concerned about the issues and what you stood for than your gender," he said.

Mike Thorstad, who will replace Warren, said he thinks an all-male commission will continue to reflect the views of the community.

The Fargo City Commission will be without a female member for the first time since 1992. The West Fargo City Commission has had at least one woman every year since 1982, said city Planning Director Larry Weil.