Richard Marcellais is a Democratic member of the North Dakota State Senate, representing District 9. He assumed office on December 1, 2024, and his current term will end on December 1, 2026.
Born on January 23, 1947, Richard Marcellais has dedicated much of his life to public service and community leadership. He resides in Belcourt, North Dakota, with his wife, Betty. Together, they have two children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Marcellais served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1971, including a tour during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at National College in Rapid City, South Dakota, earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Administration, Structural Drafting, and Management between 1971 and 1979.
His professional career includes serving as the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians (TMBCI) Veteran Service Officer. Marcellais has held numerous leadership positions within his community, including President of the Turtle Mountain Community School Board, President of the North Dakota Indian School Board Association, and Chairman of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians from 2008 to 2010.
In addition to his roles in education and tribal leadership, Marcellais has been actively involved in veterans’ organizations. He has served as Vice Commander of American Legion Post #262 and is a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #4516, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) Chapter #2168, and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 941. His dedication to veterans’ affairs was recognized with his induction into the North Dakota Native American Hall of Honor.
Marcellais’s political career in the North Dakota State Senate began in 2007, representing District 9 until 2022. After a brief hiatus, he returned to the Senate in 2025. Throughout his tenure, he has served on various committees, including Agriculture and Veterans Affairs, Finance and Taxation, Education, Government and Veterans Affairs, and Industry, Business and Labor.
As a citizen of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, Marcellais brings a unique perspective to the Senate, advocating for issues pertinent to Native American communities and veterans. His extensive experience in tribal leadership, education, and veterans’ affairs informs his legislative priorities and commitment to public service.
