News & Updates
Bismarck District 7 candidates bypass endorsement process, use signatures to get on ballot
Grant Coursey, Bismarck Tribune
Three Bismarck Republican candidates have collected the signatures required to appear on the June primary ballot, bypassing the district party's endorsement convention.
District 7 Republican incumbent Sen. Michelle Axtman and state House candidates Greg Vetter and Steve Sauter submitted more than 600 signatures from their constituents to the North Dakota Secretary of State. The signatures were certified Tuesday, ensuring the trio will appear on the June primary ballot.
Candidates only need signatures equivalent to 1% of their district's population to appear on the primary ballot -- roughly 169 signatures in the case of District 7.
The three candidates said the strong signature support reflects enthusiasm across their district.
All three have said lowering property taxes, supporting families, responsible budgeting and economic growth are their priorities.