GNDC Election Recap: Part 1

The 2026 North Dakota Primary Election delivered positive results for both the business community and North Dakota voters.

ND Chamber PAC-supported candidates performed strongly on Election Day, with 23 of the 28 candidates supported by the PAC earning victories, resulting in an 82% success rate. These outcomes reflect months of engagement, relationship-building, and strategic investment focused on electing leaders who understand the importance of economic growth, workforce development, energy policy, and maintaining a strong business climate.

Voters also approved Measure 1, a constitutional amendment requiring both citizen-initiated and legislatively referred constitutional measures to address only a single subject. The measure promotes greater transparency and clarity by ensuring voters can evaluate constitutional changes on their individual merits rather than as part of broader packages of unrelated issues.

These successes were supported by a broader effort to increase voter awareness and participation ahead of the election. Throughout the primary season, GNDC provided members and the public with weekly election updates, voter information, candidate resources, and educational materials through our website and communications channels. Historically, primary election turnout trails general election participation, making voter engagement especially important. This year's turnout approached 21 percent—slightly higher than the previous primary election—and increased participation helped shape several key races across the state.

One of the most valuable parts of this election cycle was connecting directly with candidates. Throughout the spring, our team met with 16 legislative candidates to discuss the issues that matter most to North Dakota employers. These conversations provided an opportunity to share the perspective of the business community while learning more about the priorities and experiences candidates would bring to public service.

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