On Dec. 12, 2011, Taylor announced that he is running for the Democratic-NPL nomination in the 2012 North Dakota gubernatorial election. Taylor's priorities for office include a balanced approach to energy development; a long-term economic plan; solutions to North Dakota's water challenges, a new commitment to children's health, well-being and education; and a common-sense government where everyone's voice is heard. On Friday, March 16, 2012 at the North Dakota Democratic-NPL State Convention, State Senate Minority Leader Ryan Taylor accepted his party's nomination as candidate for Governor of North Dakota. He was nominated by former First Lady Grace Link and seconded by his colleague in the State Senate, Mac Schneider. Taylor is married to Nikki (Mogen) Taylor. They have three children: Marshall, Olav, and Sylvia. Taylor is also active in his community. He is on the board of directors for Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota, and serves as treasurer for the board of Metigoshe Ministries. Taylor served on the board of directors for Hartland Mutual Insurance, and filled a vacancy on the McHenry County Board of Commissioners in 2013 and 2014. He has held leadership positions with Zion Lutheran Church, North Dakota Stockmen's Association, Dollars for Scholars, Towner Area Beef Promoters, Towner FFA Alumni, the Rural Leadership North Dakota Council, and the Souris Basin Planning Council Revolving Loan Fund. He is a trustee of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and has been active with the Midwest Council of State Governments and the American Council of Young Political Leaders.