701 Civics

Bryan Pechtl

The non-partisan 701 Civics podcast will provide listeners with an introduction to state government in North Dakota. From the Secretary of State to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, learn more about the offices and officials that lead North Dakota.

  1. Aug 4

    America’s Unfinished Idea — David J. Bobb on the Declaration of Independence, Civic Ideals, and Constructive Debate

    In this episode, David J. Bobb, President and CEO of the Bill of Rights Institute, discusses the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence, exploring its historical debates, moral weight, and relevance for contemporary civic life. He emphasizes the importance of understanding America's foundational principles to shape its future trajectory. Along with Tony Williams, Mr. Bobb co-authored 'Divided Over the Declaration: How an Enduring Debate Sustains the Vision of America'. To purchase a copy of 'Divided Over the Declaration: How an Enduring Debate Sustains the Vision of America': https://amzn.to/4fKFQWx The Bill of Rights Institute: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/ David J. Bobb, PhD Biography: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/people/david-bobb/ Bill of Rights Institute Training: Medora, N.D. October 20, 2026 https://billofrightsinstitute.org/event/c2e06fda-9e59-4d4b-80f4-b93ca536c194/

  2. Jul 16

    Summer 2026 701 Civics Roundup

    What has been going on politically in North Dakota since June 2026? LOTS! In this episode of 701 Civics, we look back at some of the most important civic developments in North Dakota over the past two months. From the June primary election to a voter-approved constitutional amendment requiring ballot measures to address only one subject, we unpack the stories that will shape North Dakota government in the months and years ahead. We also take a closer look at one of the summer's most significant constitutional cases: the North Dakota Supreme Court's decision to remove the Legislature's proposed term limits amendment from the ballot. What was the Legislature trying to change? Why did the Court rule it unconstitutional? And what does the decision teach us about the balance of power between the people, the Legislature, and the judiciary? Whether you're a lifelong North Dakotan or simply interested in how state government works, this episode provides clear, nonpartisan explanations to help you better understand the civic issues making headlines. Join us as we move beyond the news and explore the constitutional principles, election processes, and public institutions that shape life in the Peace Garden State.

  3. May 13

    Jury Duty in North Dakota and the U.S.

    How many times have you opened the mail and got that letter from your clerk of court calling you for jury duty? What is it that makes people cringe when they get that letter? And do you really get a jury of your peers? On this podcast, we look at the experience of the host and his recent experience as a potential juror. Spoiler - it was pretty interesting to be a part of the jury process. North Dakota Courts Jury Duty Web Page: https://www.ndcourts.gov/district-court/Jurors-Handbook U.S. Courts Jury Duty Web Page: https://www.uscourts.gov/court-programs/jury-service

  4. Mar 24

    The League of Women Voters of North Dakota

    In this interview, Kathleen Tweeten, the President of the League of Women Voters of North Dakota, shares the history, mission, and current initiatives of the League. Topics include voting rights, civics education, election integrity, and ways to get involved in promoting democracy. Learn about their new initiatives and outreach, including their new, free, Legislative Guide for voters and classrooms. League of Women Voters of North Dakota: https://www.lwvnd.org/ LWVND Civics Curriculum: https://www.lwvnd.org/curriculum Resources for Teachers and Students: https://www.lwvnd.org/students How to Run for Office in North Dakota: https://www.lwvnd.org/how-to-run

  5. Mar 6

    How North Dakota Boys State Shapes Future Leaders

    On this podcast, Garrett Anderson, North Dakota Boys State Deputy Director of Recruitment visits and lets us know the history, mission, and purpose of North Dakota Boys State, as well as how North Dakota high school Juniors can apply to participate in the program. Discover how North Dakota Boys State educates young men about civics, leadership, and government through a hands-on, mock government experience. Learn about the program's history, application process, and the impact it has on participants' understanding of civic responsibilities. N.D. Boys State Website: https://sites.google.com/ndboysstate.org/northdakotaboysstate/home N.D. Boys State Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ndboysstate/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of Boys State 00:50 History and Sponsorship by the American Legion 03:14 Eligibility and Application Process 06:07 Website and How to Apply 06:22 Qualities Sought in Participants 07:40 First Day and Week Overview 09:50 Day-to-Day Schedule and Activities 11:07 Leadership Roles and Elections 13:34 Fostering Leadership and Diversity 15:19 Encouraging Civil Discourse and Respect 17:05 Educational Value Beyond Classroom Learning 19:13 Post-Program Impact and Civic Engagement 20:06 Participation Numbers and Future Goals 21:21 Deadlines and Application Tips 22:43 Support Team and Recruitment Efforts 24:10 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

  6. Feb 20

    701 Civics Potpourri February 2026

    This episode covers recent legislative and judicial developments in North Dakota, including special sessions, school funding initiatives, and judicial elections. It also provides some insights into state politics, legal processes, and upcoming changes in the judiciary. Key Topics Special legislative sessions and their purposeSchool funding initiatives and constitutional measuresNorth Dakota Supreme Court elections and judicial appointmentsLegislative turnover and term limitsLegal challenges to constitutional amendments Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:56 Special Session Called to Address Federal Funding 02:01 Federal Funds and Rural Health Transformation Program 03:41 School Lunch Funding and Voter Initiatives 04:15 Constitutional Measures and Legislative Flexibility 05:14 Legislative Disagreements and Signature Gathering 06:07 Legislative Opportunities to Revisit Bills 06:43 Signature Collection and Ballot Measures 07:53 State Budget and Legacy Fund Usage 09:15 Judicial Elections and New Chief Justice 10:28 Role and Responsibilities of the Chief Justice 12:23 Court Case Processing and Case Load 13:37 North Dakota Supreme Court Caseload and Appeals 15:57 Upcoming Judicial Appointments and Resignations 20:35 Legislative Turnover and Retirement Trends 24:12 Term Limits and Legislative Experience 27:12 Legal Challenges to Constitutional Measures 29:04 Following Court Cases and Legal Proceedings 29:50 Summary and Final Thoughts Links: Current Supreme Court Justices: https://www.ndcourts.gov/supreme-court/justices Legislative Council Newsletter: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://ndlegis.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/newsletter/newsletter012726.pdf

  7. Jan 18

    Civics Education in Action: Insights from We the People

    In this episode, Bryan interviews Jennifer Kallenbach, a dedicated social studies teacher and the state coordinator for the We the People program in North Dakota. Jennifer shares her journey from growing up in Wisconsin to teaching in North Dakota, emphasizing the importance of civics education in fostering informed and engaged citizens. The We the People program, initiated in the 1980s, aims to enhance students' understanding of democracy and civic participation through a structured curriculum that includes a textbook and a simulated congressional hearing competition. Jennifer highlights the program's focus on developing critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills among students, which are essential for active participation in democracy. Jennifer elaborates on the various ways teachers can implement the We the People curriculum, whether as a supplement to existing classes or as a standalone program. She discusses the professional development opportunities available for teachers, including the We the People Summer Teacher Institute, which provides resources and training to enhance their teaching methods. The conversation also touches on the impact of the program on students, with examples of former participants who have gone on to pursue careers in law and public service. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of civics education in empowering the next generation to engage meaningfully in their communities and government. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to We the People and Jennifer Kallenbach 01:02 Overview of the We the People Program 02:17 Importance of Civics Education Today 03:18 Academic Skills Developed Through Participation 05:03 Implementation in Classrooms 06:07 Impact on Students and Engagement 08:27 Professional Development for Teachers 09:55 Funding and Support for the Program 11:25 Challenges for New Teachers 12:58 Focus on Primary Source Documents 13:59 State Competition Overview 17:48 Participation and Awards in State Competition 19:32 Resources and Accessibility of Textbooks 21:00 Community Involvement and Support 22:48 Future Opportunities for We the People 24:41 How to Get Involved and Contact Information https://www.thestudynd.org/civic-education We the People - Center for Civic Education: https://civiced.org/we-the-people

  8. 12/29/2025

    Bridging the Gap: The Role of the Indian Affairs Commission

    In this enlightening conversation, Brad Hawk, the Executive Director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission, discusses the commission's role as a liaison between tribal nations and state government. He shares insights on the commission's responsibilities, communication strategies, and initiatives aimed at education and community engagement. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the commission, including misconceptions about its role, and the importance of addressing both immediate and long-term issues affecting tribal communities. Hawk emphasizes the need for collaboration and communication to strengthen relationships and improve outcomes for Native communities in North Dakota. ND Indian Affairs Commission https://www.indianaffairs.nd.gov/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission 02:06 The Role and Responsibilities of the Commission 06:00 Communication Strategies and Government Relations 08:47 Education Initiatives and Community Engagement 10:48 Balancing Immediate and Long-Term Issues 12:45 Emergency Response and Food Sovereignty 14:57 Misconceptions About the Commission 17:12 Cultural Education and Preservation 18:35 Opportunities for Native Youth 20:10 Challenges and Opportunities Ahead 22:08 Future Vision for the Commission Episode Takeaways The North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission serves as a liaison between tribal nations and state government.The commission focuses on communication and education to improve relationships with legislators.Emergency response and food sovereignty are critical issues for tribal communities.Education initiatives include teaching Native American history in schools.The commission aims to empower Native youth through workforce development and leadership opportunities.Misconceptions about the commission often arise from confusion with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.Cultural preservation efforts are supported through partnerships with tribal historic preservation offices.The commission is working to address immediate issues while planning for long-term solutions.Regular meetings with state agencies help to coordinate efforts and address community needs.The future vision includes enhancing communication and collaboration with tribal governments.

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About

The non-partisan 701 Civics podcast will provide listeners with an introduction to state government in North Dakota. From the Secretary of State to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, learn more about the offices and officials that lead North Dakota.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan Pechtl
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Bryan Pechtl
  • Show Website
    701 Civics

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