State Representative District 35 in North Dakota State House District 35, North Dakota

2026 Primary Election

• Taylor Johnson — Health care data analyst in Bismarck, ND

  Taylor Johnson is a Democratic candidate for North Dakota House of Representatives, District 35, in the 2026 primary. A Bismarck resident and public health professional, she holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and works as a health care data analyst. Johnson's campaign priorities include tackling healthcare costs, affordability, and strengthening public schools. Her policy goals feature guaranteeing paid maternity leave, subsidizing health insurance premiums, and fully funding the ethics commission. She volunteers with the North Dakota Human Rights Coalition and Moms Demand Action. Johnson aims to bring an evidence-based approach and a fresh perspective to the legislature, focusing on North Dakota's youth and working class.

• Karen Karls — Incumbent State Representative in Bismarck, ND

  Karen Karls is an experienced Republican politician who has served as a State Representative for North Dakota's 35th District since 2006. A graduate of Minot State University with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, she is dedicated to ensuring North Dakotans have access to necessary healthcare, especially in the face of high costs. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Committee and is a member of Government and Veterans Affairs. Karls has a long history of party leadership, having chaired the District 35 Republicans for 28 years and currently chairing NDGOP District 35. She also contributes to the ND Council on Education Opportunity for Military Children and previously worked as a wedding cake decorator.

• Lynne M Lafer-Halvorson — Candidate for State Representative in ND

  Lynne M Lafer-Halvorson is a Democratic candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives, seeking to represent District 35 in the 2026 election cycle. She is slated to appear on the Democratic primary ballot on June 9, 2026, where she is running alongside fellow Democrat Taylor Johnson. As of the provided search results, there is no public information available regarding her professional background, specific policy positions, or detailed campaign themes. She has not yet completed a candidate survey to share more about her platform with voters.

• Bob Martinson — Incumbent State Representative in ND

  Bob Martinson is an incumbent Republican State Representative for North Dakota's District 35, a role he has held since December 1, 2000. He is seeking re-election in the 2026 North Dakota Primary Election, scheduled for June 9. Martinson brings extensive experience to the legislature, having previously served in the House from 1973 to 1997. He is also a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army Reserve. Representing District 35, he is a dedicated member of the North Dakota Legislative Assembly, participating in various legislative sessions and committee work.