State Representative District 55 in Montana State House District 55, Montana

2026 Primary Election

• Brad Barker — Incumbent Montana House of Representatives in MT

  Brad Barker, a Republican, is an incumbent member of the Montana House of Representatives, representing District 55. He assumed office in January 2025, having previously served District 58 from 2023. A retired US Army aviation officer, he was born in Altus, Oklahoma, and graduated from West Point in 1994. He also holds master's degrees from Georgetown and Marine Corps University. Barker is seeking re-election in the June 2026 Republican primary. His policy priorities include reforming Montana's tax code, addressing criminal justice and public safety issues like the lack of a pre-trial facility, and supporting school choice and vocational education.

• Richard Gessling — Candidate for State Representative in Roberts, MT

  Richard Gessling, a Democrat, is running for Montana House District 55 in 2026. A former dentist, he served on the Red Lodge City Council and as Mayor (2005-2006), and was Red Lodge Citizen of the Year in 1997. He is also a Montana Lions Hall of Fame inductee. Living in Roberts, Gessling champions affordability for families and seniors, strong public schools, protecting public lands, supporting farmers and ranchers, and expanding rural healthcare. He seeks to be a voice for all Carbon County residents on issues like property taxes, education, and healthcare access.

• Mary Horman — Nurse in Red Lodge, MT

  Mary Horman is a conservative candidate for Montana State Representative, Carbon County HD 55. A seasoned nurse, small business owner, and Red Lodge resident, she earned degrees from Calvin College and Montana State University. Horman is committed to bringing a strong conservative voice to Helena, advocating for limited government, individual rights, and an America-first approach. Her platform highlights affordability, family values, tax reduction, rural education, support for small businesses and agriculture, and defending the Second Amendment. A pro-life candidate, she also seeks healthcare reform to reduce costs, protect patient rights, and supports Congressional term limits. She announced her candidacy at the Carbon County MAGA Freedom Dinner.