
Mike Holmes is running for the North Dakota House of Representatives, District 43, to bring experienced, thoughtful leadership and a North Dakota First approach to Bismarck.
For more than 25 years, Mike has worked at the intersection of science, industry, and public policy, helping strengthen the energy technologies and economic foundations that power our state.
Now, he’s ready to dedicate his time and experience to serving the people of District 43.

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MEET MIKE
Proven Leadership in Energy & Innovation
Mike currently serves as Executive Vice President for Research & Development at the Lignite Energy Council and as Technical Advisor to the North Dakota Industrial Commission’s Lignite Research & Development Program.
Previously, he led fossil energy research efforts at the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) in Grand Forks and spent 15 years working on advanced energy technologies and commercial projects for Babcock & Wilcox.
His expertise includes:
- CO₂ capture and emissions reduction
- Hydrogen and advanced fuel production
- Reliable, affordable, low-emission energy systems
- Technology development that strengthens North Dakota industries
Mike understands the mechanics behind North Dakota’s success and how to ensure our energy and agricultural foundations remain strong while we grow new industries.
Rooted in North Dakota
A graduate of Mayville-Portland High School, Mike worked in agriculture and energy to help pay his way through college. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics from Mayville State University and a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of North Dakota.
He and his wife, Jodi—a recently retired high school science teacher—come from families of educators and believe deeply in the power of education. Together, they raised three children, Tessa, Alex and Nick.
Their family has benefited from North Dakota’s strong economy, education system, and close-knit communities. Mike is committed to ensuring those same opportunities remain available for families across District 43.
A STRONGER ND & DISTRICT 43
Mike’s Priorities
North Dakota faces tremendous opportunity—but we must be strategic. We need experience and leadership to fight off outside voices that try to control our state’s decisions. Mike Holmes has spent his career building, protecting, and advancing the industries that power our state, and now, he’s ready bring that experience to the North Dakota Legislature.

Securing North Dakota’s Energy Future
North Dakota’s economy depends on reliable, affordable, low-emission energy. Mike will champion continued technology development through partnerships with our universities and private industry to keep our state a leader in oil, gas, and coal innovation.

Strengthening Agriculture
Having worked in agriculture and grown up in rural communities, Mike knows agriculture is the heartbeat of North Dakota. He will fight for policies that support farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

Advancing Higher Education & Research
A proud graduate of Mayville State and UND, Mike strongly supports the North Dakota University System. He will work to strengthen connections between research institutions—especially at UND and the EERC—and private industry to create high-paying jobs and economic opportunity.

Growing the Economy & Expanding Opportunity
District 43 faces challenges related to affordability, workforce balance, property tax relief, and economic growth. Mike believes new industries require clean, reliable, affordable power and smart legislation to sustain growth. His experience positions him to help guide that strategy.
