Two Voices, One Vision for District 5.
Dem-NPL candidates for the North Dakota State House, committed to strong schools, affordable healthcare, and a better life for us all.
What We Stand For
Higher Wages, a Better Life
Changes to wage policy in North Dakota have consistently been rejected by the legislature. Government best serves the people the closer it is to home. North Dakota is a large state with communities that have differing needs. Wage discussions should occur at the county-level, and we will seek to introduce a bill that does this.
Pro-Family, Pro-Business Universal Healthcare
Health insurance has become a market failure. Costs are rising unsustainably with little will from the federal government to meaningfully address it. North Dakota can care for its own and explore options for universal healthcare coverage that lifts up families and businesses alike by reducing cost and creating a program that is sustainable year-to-year while ensuring we all have access to medical care, rather than those without insurance relying on the emergency room for that care.
Protect our Ranchers from Market Failures, and our People from Corporate Consolidation
North Dakota has demonstrated in its history an ability to deliver for its people with the Bank of North Dakota and the North Dakota State Mill & Elevator. We must learn from that history and create a state-owned and operated cattle feedlot and meat processing plant that gives our ranchers another option while providing North Dakotans with meat products they can be proud of and know where it's coming from.
Strong Public Education, Funding Breakfast and Lunch
Educators in North Dakota's public schools rank #41 in the nation for compensation. We must take steps to invest more in those who invest so much in our children in North Dakota. It is almost certain we will be facing budget challengs in the coming biennium. We must explore undoing the oil boom-era tax cuts for the wealthiest among us, so that we can invest in those who lift us all up and care for the next generation.
Meet the Dem-NPL Candidates for District 5
Zach Raknerud
Zach is a lifelong North Dakotan and has lived in Minot for 10 years, where he started his career. He lives with his wife, Heather, and his son, Emmett. Zach believes that leaders in Minot have created too many embarrassing headlines in recent years, and he seeks to bring practical, sensible solutions that improve the lives of Minot residents at a time when many are falling behind.
Kyle Erickson
Kyle is a disability advocate, non-profit professional, and comedian running to represent Minot's District 5. He's spent his career working with people and families directly impacted by state policy — he's running to bring practical, people-first leadership back to Bismarck. He believes North Dakota works best when we take care of our own, show up for our neighbors, and focus on solutions that actually help.
Coming soon
Coming soon
Get Involved With Our Campaign
Volunteer, donate, or spread the word - every action helps us bring positive change
© 2026 ND District 5 Democratic Campaign | All rights reserved