State Representative District 43 in North Dakota State House District 43, North Dakota

2026 Primary Election

• Jill T Chandler — Executive Director in Grand Forks, ND

  Jill T. Chandler is a Republican candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives, District 43, in the 2026 Primary Election. Currently serving as the executive director of Relate Care Clinic Pregnancy Center in Grand Forks, Chandler announced her candidacy on February 9, 2026. Raised on a farm near Northwood, she emphasizes the importance of community relationships, a value honed through her professional and volunteer work focused on child wellbeing. Her experience includes roles with ND Family Alliance, Altru Alliance, and the ND Pregnancy Resource Network. Chandler is committed to lifelong learning, aspiring to address issues facing North Dakota through a focus on education, mental health support, and affordable living. She anticipates departing from nonprofit leadership to dedicate her time to legislative service.

• Mike Holmes — Executive vice president for research and development at the Lignite Energy Council in Grand Forks, ND

  Mike Holmes is a Republican candidate for North Dakota House, District 43, in the 2026 Primary Election. An executive vice president for research and development at the Lignite Energy Council, he brings over 25 years of experience in energy, technology, and public policy. Holmes, who holds degrees in mathematics, chemistry, and chemical engineering, lives in Grand Forks. His platform prioritizes strengthening agriculture and energy, championing oil, gas, and coal innovation, expanding economic opportunities, and connecting research with private industry for high-paying jobs. He aims to protect North Dakota's values and advocate for District 43.

• Lukas Arthur Maughan — Paralegal in Grand Forks, ND

  Lukas Maughan, a 29-year-old paralegal, is running as a Democrat for the North Dakota House of Representatives, District 43, in the 2026 primary. He previously sought office in District 45 at age 19. Maughan earned his degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead. His campaign emphasizes public education, reducing the influence of money in state government, and increasing housing affordability. He states his values were shaped in North Dakota through family, community, and experiences like wrestling, which instilled discipline and accountability. He aims to bring people together to build a better future for southwest Grand Forks.

• Eric J Murphy — Incumbent North Dakota House of Representatives - District 43 in Grand Forks, ND

  Eric J. Murphy currently serves as a North Dakota State Representative for District 43, a position he assumed in December 2022. He is seeking re-election in the 2026 Republican primary, campaigning for his second term. A Republican from Grand Forks, Murphy holds a Ph.D. in biochemistry from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor's from Hastings College, with a background in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and executive roles at Krampade LLC and Agragen LLC. He has been an Associate Professor at the University of North Dakota since 2000. Murphy is committed to representing all constituents, valuing their participation in the political process, and views his first term as a transition from scientist to legislator. He is married with three adult children.

• Tyler York — Instrument repair technician in Grand Forks, ND

  Tyler York is a musician and instrument repair technician from Grand Forks, North Dakota, seeking election to the North Dakota House of Representatives for District 43. A graduate of May-Port CG High School and the University of North Dakota, he has dedicated 17 years to working at Popplers Music, serving students and educators. York is also a performer with the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra and supports youth music programs. He decided to run after witnessing local school districts struggle with budget challenges, believing state-level action is necessary. His campaign emphasizes stability, stewardship, and service, advocating for dependable public school support, responsible resource management, and practical solutions for communities.