Thoms announces candidacy for District 7

Bismarck, ND — Bismarck resident Dr. Jason Thoms has announced he is seeking the Democratic-NPL Party’s endorsement for representative for District 7 of the state legislature at the party’s February 7 Region 6 District Convention in Bismarck.

“Every day expenses have increased in a way that is impacting the bottom line for the people of our community,” Thoms said, explaining his motivation to run for office. “The cost of food, fuel, and daily essentials are not coming down, housing costs are continuing to rise, and paychecks are getting tighter each month.”

“I also believe the first step to improving the lives of people in our community is to listen to their concerns, ask tough questions of our leaders, and advocate for a new way forward that will improve our lives while being fiscally responsible and sustainable for the long term,” Thoms said. “As a widower whose spouse died by suicide, and a father of three amazing kids, I have a particular interest in how our state can advocate for better mental health policies and better opportunities for our children to live, grow, and thrive each day.”

Thoms, who has been living in Bismarck since fall 2020, also understands the challenges of today’s workforce as he currently has he holds three different positions with three different employers: He is the executive director of Dakota West Arts Council; he serves as Director of Worship at Trinity Lutheran Church; and he is the founder and executive director of Dakota Pro Musica, the only professional music choir in the region, which also focuses on outreach to rural communities.

Thoms is also active in various nonprofit boards, including serving as president of the Capital Curling Club and president of the standing committee of the Episcopal Church of North Dakota.

Thoms earned his undergraduate degree from St. Olaf College in Minnesota and his master’s and doctorate in music from Michigan State University.

Thoms is a widower and has three adult children.