Montana State House District 55

Current seat holder: Brad Barker (R).

Brad Barker

Brad Barker (Republican) is the incumbent member of the Montana House of Representatives representing District 55 (Carbon County), running for re-election in the November 3, 2026 general election. Official legislative biography notes: Born 1972 in Oklahoma; moved to Montana in 2016; B.A. in economics, United States Military Academy at West Point; MPP, Georgetown University; served over 20 years in U.S. Army as an attack helicopter pilot and aviation commander; grew up on a farm and ranch; school district administrator for two years; mergers and acquisition advisor; served in House since 2023; spouse’s name is Carla; four children.

Campaign site

“- Energy, housing & food are vital to our security & the most significant drivers of inflation. - Improve regulatory framework & transparency in the energy & housing permit approval process to increase free market supply. - Protect water rights & streamline the waterway improvement process to reduce the risk of flooding. - Ensure abundant, affordable & reliable energy by all means - natural gas, clean coal, renewables & safe nuclear power.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)
“My experience is based on a lifetime of service committed to protecting and defending the Constitution to support the best interests of all Americans and the future of our kids.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)
“Commanding in combat in Afghanistan is the most challenging thing I've done.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)

Richard Gessling

Richard Gessling (Democratic) is a candidate for the Montana House of Representatives in District 55 (Carbon County) in the November 3, 2026 general election. Our famers and ranchers are not getting fair treatment by our federal government and our state. They have been the most heavily impacted by increases in the cost of everything that everyday citizens have experienced. The cost of health insurance with the loss of subsidies for their ACA insurance raised their rates more than 2-3 times with high deductibles and copays. Many have chosen not to be insured. The war with the increases in gas and fertilizer doubling added up. Last year saw the highest bankruptcies of farmers and ranchers. The importing of foreign beef helped the meet packers but resulted in lower sale price for American beef . Country of origin is a must.

Campaign site

Rural Healthcare: “Too many of our neighbors drive hours for basic care. I'll work to expand access to healthcare in rural communities, support our local hospitals, and ensure mental health services reach those who need them.” (Richard Gessling campaign website)
Public Lands & Water: “Our public lands are the backbone of Montana's way of life — for hunting, fishing, ranching, and recreation. I will always stand against efforts to sell off or transfer our public lands.” (Richard Gessling campaign website)