State Representative District 7 in North Dakota State House District 7, North Dakota

2026 Primary Election

• Gaylynn Becker — Counselor and Consultant in Bismarck, ND

  Gaylynn Becker is a Republican candidate running for election to the North Dakota House of Representatives, representing District 7, in the primary on June 9, 2026. Holding a Ph.D., Becker brings a rich background in education and counseling. Her professional experience includes serving as an Assistant Director of Counseling, Testing, and Career Development, and as a Curriculum & Data Director for Mandan Public Schools. An award-winning mental health counselor, she also currently operates Western Counseling & Consulting, where she performs as a singer and guitarist. Becker resides in Bismarck, North Dakota, and has testified in support of Senate Bill 2322, advocating against the state's use of eminent domain for carbon capture, solar, wind, and hydrogen energy infrastructure tied to federal tax credits.

• Rick Becker — Plastic surgeon in Bismarck, ND

  Rick Becker, a plastic surgeon and businessman, is running as a Republican for the North Dakota House of Representatives to represent District 7 in the June 9, 2026 primary election. He previously served in this office from December 2012 to December 2022. Known as a staunch conservative and advocate for limited government and free markets, he founded North Dakota's "freedom caucus," the Bastiat Caucus, in 2013, and ran for Governor in 2016. He is a father of four and a grandfather of one. His campaign activities include meeting people, setting up events, interviews, and phone calls.

• Steve Sauter — Executive Vice President, Interstate Bearing Systems in Bismarck, ND

  Steve Sauter is a fifth-generation North Dakotan and Bismarck resident, where he and his wife Crystal are raising three children. With 19 years in North Dakota’s energy, manufacturing, and industrial sectors, he rose to Executive Vice President of Interstate Bearing Systems. A first-time candidate, he is running for the North Dakota House of Representatives in District 7 to uphold state values and ensure future generations thrive. His platform emphasizes strong families, safe communities, and opportunity. He advocates for responsible energy development, practical policies respecting taxpayers and family values, and limited, results-focused government.

• Jason Thoms — Non-Profit Executive Director and Musician in Bismarck, ND

  Dr. Jason Thoms is a Democratic-NPL candidate for North Dakota House of Representatives, District 7, in the 2026 primary election. A Bismarck resident, he holds degrees from St. Olaf College and Michigan State University. His professional experience spans education, arts advocacy, non-profit leadership, and music. Thoms is motivated by rising daily expenses to advocate for affordable childcare, housing, and improved mental health policies. He also seeks better-funded schools, aiming to foster a more affordable and welcoming state by actively listening to community concerns.

• Greg Vetter — Business leader in Bismarck, ND

  Greg Vetter, a lifelong North Dakotan and a 40-year business leader, is running for the North Dakota House of Representatives for District 7. With experience in banking, higher education, and board leadership, he aims to bring his collaborative and results-focused mindset to the legislature. Vetter's priorities include fostering economic growth, promoting a business-friendly environment, and advancing limited government policies that respect taxpayers and lower property taxes. He is committed to defending pro-life values, advocating for individuals with disabilities—a cause he and his wife strongly support—and backing the state's coal and energy industry. As a proud parent and grandparent, he seeks to ensure North Dakota remains strong and welcoming for families.

• Tiffany Williams-Rice — Fifth-grade teacher in Bismarck, ND

  Tiffany Williams-Rice is a Democratic candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives, District 7, in the 2026 primary election. An educator, she holds degrees from the University of North Dakota, Colorado State University, and the University of Washington, Seattle. Currently a fifth-grade teacher in Bismarck, she also serves as a reading resource. Williams-Rice is motivated to run because she disagrees with the state's current direction, seeking to be an advocate for North Dakota. Her campaign focuses on addressing community concerns like affordability, housing, and healthcare inequities, demonstrating a history of listening to the community. She aims to partner with North Dakotans and serve District 7 with compassion and persistence.