Chris Tiongson

Chris Tiongson earned a high school diploma from Red River High School, a bachelor's degree from Georgetown University in 1989, and an M.D. from the University of North Dakota in 1993. His career experience includes working as a physician.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Hi, I'm Dr. T, Chris Tiongson, a pediatrician, husband, and father running for the North Dakota House in District 41. I grew up in Grand Forks and graduated from Red River High School. I then went off to college at Georgetown University before coming back home to UND for medical school. After my pediatric residency and 5 years practicing in Sioux Falls, our family moved back to North Dakota in 2002. We've lived in the same house in District 41 ever since. In my nearly 30 year career I've seen so many advances in medical science that have helped my patients and my family. I've also seen how policies and societal factors outside the exam room harm the health of kids. That's why I'm running...for the kids.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

They say it takes a village to raise a child, I say it takes a healthy village to raise a healthy child. I will promote healthy kids and healthy communities using common sense and science to prevent disease and injuries. Health isn't just physical and in my career I've seen first hand the mental health crisis in North Dakota. I will work to reduce barriers for all our neighbors to access mental healthcare and prevent suicideWith looming state budget restraints I will prioritize public education so that teachers and kids will have what they need to succeed including universal school meals.A healthy community also needs a healthy economy so that our graduates can have opportunities to enter the work force, learn a trade, or go to college. And have affordable options for housing and childcare when the next generation is ready to start a family in North Dakota.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about promoting healthy kids and communities, reducing barriers to accessing mental healthcare, and investing in North Dakota to increase affordable options for housing and childcare.