Bill Patrie

Bill Patrie, a retired economic development leader and cooperative development specialist, is running for the North Dakota State Senate in District 47 as a Democratic-NPL candidate in the 2026 primary. A long-time Bismarck area resident, Patrie was motivated by concerns about state and national leadership, aiming to foster common purpose in the legislature. His vision includes creating a welcoming state that values ethnic and cultural diversity. Priorities for his campaign include thriving rural communities, affordable health care for all, support for small businesses, and environmental protection. He previously served as director of the North Dakota Economic Development Commission and promoted value-added agriculture cooperatives.