Link Democratic–NPL The 1976 North Dakota gubernatorial election was held on November 2, 1976.

Link Ran for a second term against Republican Richard Elkin.

Link won reelection defeating Elkin 52% to 47% Primary elections were held on September 7, 1976.

Stating that he understood that the coal had to be mined carefully.

“Art link Good judgment we can trust” [1] 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 [2]