The 1976 North Dakota gubernatorial election was held on November 2, 1976. Incumbent Democratic governor Arthur A. Link Ran for a second term against Republican Richard Elkin. Link won reelection defeating Elkin 52% to 47%. This election marked the first time that the lieutenant governor of North Dakota was elected jointly on the same ticket with the governor following a 1974 constitutional amendment.
Primary elections
Primary elections were held on September 7, 1976.
Democratic primary
Candidates
- Arthur A. Link, incumbent governor
Republican primary
Candidates
- Richard Elkin, North Dakota Public Service Commissioner
- Herb Geving
General election
Candidates
Major party candidates
- Arthur A. Link, Democratic
- Richard Elkin, Republican
Other candidates
- Martin K. Vaaler, American
Link Ran on his record of Coal mining, stating that he understood that the coal had to be mined carefully and that he knew the state had to have a fair return for its resources, while also stating that he was guiding resources to better manage North Dakota's future. His campaign slogan was. “Art Link: Good judgment we can trust”.
He also stated that his policy was cautious orderly development on energy and one that was for the basic needs of the state of North Dakota as well as concern for the nation's energy.