Happy Election Season, Montana Conservation Voters!

As we inch closer to Election Day, Team MCV is dedicated to making sure that you are informed and prepared to submit your ballot on or before November 5. We’ve said it before, but now that we’re down to the wire we must reiterate the importance of this year’s election. Protecting Montana as the Last Best Place is on the line. Access to our public lands and waters is on the line. Our clean air and clean water are on the line. And our democracy is on the line. 

MCV has a record of supporting pro-conservation candidates for 25 years. We have elected conservation leaders to all levels of government from city councils to the U.S. Senate and everything in between.

Enclosed, please find a detailed list of Montana Conservation Voters’ 73 endorsed candidates for the 2024 election. We have endorsed candidates up and down the ballot for County Commission, State Legislature, Public Service Commission, Clerk of the Supreme Court, Supreme Court Chief and Associate Justice, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Attorney General, Governor, U.S. House of Representatives, and U.S. Senate. MCV is committed to building an electorate that fully represents the residents of Montana and we did our homework.

To be considered for our endorsement, new candidates completed questionnaires tailored to the office they’re running for that assessed their commitment to conservation, upholding Montana’s constitution and protecting our democracy. Supreme Court candidates were interviewed by MCV staff and members of the MCV Political Action Committee board.  Candidates that were running for a seat that they had been previously endorsed for were not required to submit a questionnaire. All final endorsement decisions were made by MCV’s affiliated Political Action Committee. 

MCV’s endorsed candidates are pro-conservation, pro-Constitution, and committed to fighting for you and the Montana we love. Now, take a minute to read about our incredible candidates and then get out there and VOTE! Don’t forget to bring your friends.

Cheers — GO FIGHT WIN!

Information about Voting in the 2024 Election

• Important Dates:
  • October 11: Ballots are mailed
  • October 18: Recommended last day to request a mail ballot
  • October 28: Last day to send mail ballots
    • If you don’t mail it by this date, you can still drop it off in-person!
  • November 5: GENERAL ELECTION
  • November 5: Last day to register to vote in person
    • That’s right, Montana allows same-day voter registration! Make sure you have the proper identification so you get to use your voice at the polls.
    • All ballots must be returned to your local elections office by 8 PM.
• Are you registered to vote? Check your voter registration status HERE.
• Not registered to vote? That’s okay! Here’s how you can register:
  • Submit THIS COMPLETED FORM to your Local County Elections Office. Contact information for County Elections Offices can be found on page two of the form.
    • You’ll need to provide a current and valid photo identification, including but not limited to a Valid Driver’s License, MT State ID Card, Tribal ID Card, or Social Security number.
    • Printed forms are available at your Local County Elections Office. If you want to fill out your form ahead of time but don’t have access to a printer, try checking for printer access at your local library!
• 60 of the 73 candidates endorsed by Team MCV are running for the State Legislature. Find out which legislative districts YOU live in HERE.
• For more information about voting this November, please visit mtvotersedfund.org/voting.

NOTE: Candidates marked with an asterisk (*) denote incumbents running for re-election.

U.S. Congress

Sen. Jon Tester for U.S. Senate*

Sen. Jon Tester is a self-described “seven-fingered dirt farmer” and former school teacher who has deep roots in hard work, responsibility, and accountability. Since 1978, Jon and his wife Sharla have been farming the same land near the town of Big Sandy, Montana that was homesteaded by Jon’s grandparents in 1912. Fired up by the Montana Legislature’s decision to deregulate Montana’s power industry (resulting in higher power costs for everyday Montanans), Jon ran for and was elected to the Montana Senate in 1998. In 2005, his colleagues chose him to serve as Montana’s Senate President — which he did until he was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2006.

Since first being sent to Washington, Jon has maintained a strong record of fighting for our public lands and Montana’s outdoor economy. In 2019, his bill to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) passed and became law. LWCF was a landmark piece of legislation which invests in Montana by funding everything from swimming pools to soccer fields to large landscape conservation projects — providing access to public outdoor spaces in every single county in Montana. At the same time, Jon’s bipartisan Yellowstone Gateway Protection Act was also signed into law, protecting the doorstep of the nation’s first National Park and 30,000 acres of public land from industrial mining. Additionally, in 2014, Jon protected the North Fork of the Flathead River from oil and gas development and worked with conservationists, ranchers, and recreationists to pass the first collaborative wilderness bill in three decades — the Rocky Mountain Front Heritage Act. Finally, his Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act, which would protect nearly 80 thousand acres of Montana public lands as wilderness and secure access to outdoor recreation, continues to gain momentum.

Jon also championed and was the only member of the Montana delegation to vote for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (a.k.a. the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) and the Inflation Reduction Act. Since they were passed in 2021 and 2022, these monumental new laws have made significant investments in Montana toward energy freedom, critical water infrastructure like the Milk River Project, and wildfire mitigation. In sum, Jon is a tireless defender of rural America and the Montana way of life. He will continue fighting to protect public lands and waters, bring down costs, and improve the lives of all Montanans.

Monica Tranel for U.S. House of Representatives, District 1

Monica Tranel is a two-time Olympian, former Public Service Commission staffer, and Missoula-based attorney who specializes in utility and energy issues. Throughout her career, Monica has consistently fought for the people of Montana. In 2022, she took NorthWestern Energy all the way to the state Supreme Court and won, saving ratepayers $10 million dollars. Her record shows that she will fight for energy freedom and a just transition to renewable energy — despite attempts by corporations to keep Montanans paying high rates for outdated energy production. Moreover, Monica intends to champion the Headwaters Legacy Act, the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act, and similar bills to protect public lands in Congress. She will work to ensure that we have access to our public lands and that our public resources are managed so that we can all continue to enjoy their wonders for generations to come. Monica was previously endorsed by Team MCV during her 2022 bid for the seat now held by Rep. Ryan Zinke.

Ryan Busse for Governor

Ryan Busse grew up on a family cattle ranch and wheat farm before pursuing a career that led him to help build an iconic American gun company in Kalispell. He went on to enjoy a successful executive role at that company for more than 25 years. During this time, his deep commitment to community and environmental issues became increasingly apparent, starting with his advocacy against the Bush Administration’s controversial drilling plans in the sacred Badger-Two Medicine area. His dedication to public lands was further demonstrated by his service on MCV’s Board of Directors from 2008 to 2013, including his tenure as Board Chair from 2010 to 2012. His commitment to environmental protection is underscored by his sons’ involvement as plaintiffs in last year’s landmark Held v. Montana case, which found the State of Montana responsible for upholding the constitutional right to a “clean and healthful environment.” 

The Governor is one of five Land Board commissioners — the others being the Attorney General, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Secretary of State, and State Auditor. The Board oversees the management of lands held by the state for the benefit of Montana’s educational institutions. As a member of the Land Board, Ryan would prioritize increasing public land ownership and access to those lands. He intends to focus on conserving our natural resources with the aim of preserving them — and their economic viability — for future generations.

Raph Graybill for Lieutenant Governor

Ryan’s running mate, Raph Graybill, served as Chief Legal Counsel to Governor Steve Bullock. In this role, he argued and won the case before the Montana Supreme Court that saved Habitat Montana, the state’s best conservation tool to keep farmers and ranchers on the landscape while also protecting wildlife habitat. Raph was endorsed by MCV when he ran for Montana Attorney General in 2020. He now works in the same small, family law practice that his great-grandfather started 104 years ago in Belt, Montana. Since Gianforte became governor, he has blocked over a dozen different unconstitutional laws that would have invaded Montanans’ constitutional rights.

Ben Alke for Attorney General

Ben Alke grew up in Helena and currently works as a Bozeman-based attorney. Ben has experience in environmental law, and his work has included fighting to re-open illegally blocked public roads to maintain access to public lands. As Montana’s chief law enforcement officer, he will ensure our democracy remains strong by making decisions that are based on the facts and the law, and he will protect Montanans by impartially enforcing the laws, defending our freedoms, and guarding our state’s legal and ethical standards. As a member of the state Land Board, Ben intends to prioritize increasing funding for public education and access to public lands and waterways for hunting, fishing, and recreation.

Sen. Shannon O’Brien for Superintendent of Public Instruction

Sen. Shannon O’Brien is an experienced high school educator who was the dean of Missoula College and served as the education policy advisor to former Gov. Steve Bullock. Shannon also worked on education policy as the elected official for SD 46 during the 2021 and 2023 legislative sessions. As State Superintendent, she will be a strong voice in speaking out against attacks on our democracy. She intends to make sure that our students are taught civics education and that they understand that protecting democracy is both a right and the responsibility of each of us. Shannon has been previously endorsed by MCV and scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard for her work as a Senator. She is also an MCV Lifetime Champion. Shannon’s voting record reflects a strong commitment to preventing the sale of public lands and underscores her belief that maintaining access to these lands is crucial for preserving our outdoor heritage. This record clearly illustrates how she would approach her duties on the Land Board. 

Jesse James Mullen for Secretary of State

Jesse James Mullen lives in Deer Lodge and has spent the past 20 years working in Montana journalism. Throughout his career, he has worked to hold politicians accountable. Now, he is running for office to help return accountability to our state executive offices. As Secretary of State, Jesse will guarantee accurate voting information is available and protect and rebuild the credibility of our elections. He believes that equal access and participation in elections is essential to our democracy, and he will work tirelessly to ensure eligible voters have unobstructed access to voting. As a member of the Land Board, Jesse plans to champion our public lands as one of the most vital resources in our state. He is dedicated to protecting public access while also preserving the environmental integrity of these lands.

John Repke for State Auditor

John Repke is a business executive who received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business finance. He retired in 2021 after a 40-year career that started in the oilfields of Wyoming and took him to being the chief financial officer of several large international businesses. John’s career made him an expert in insurance programs, self-funded employee health plans, and risk management. John is running for State Auditor because he believes he has the knowledge, skills, and perspective to protect Montana consumers without compromise. The State Auditor also serves as one of the five Land Board commissioners. John intends to follow the law and do everything possible to help ensure that our public-school trust is robust and that access to public lands and waterways for recreation, hunting, and fishing is protected.

State Supreme Court

Jeremiah “Jerry” Lynch for Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

Judge Jerry Lynch was born and raised in Butte and is a graduate of Carroll College, Montana State University, and the University of Montana. He has more than 28 years of public service experience, beginning when he clerked for federal judge and former Montana Chief Justice Paul Hatfield. He then entered private practice and was appointed federal magistrate judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana in 2006 before retiring in 2019. Jerry is seeking a seat on the Montana Supreme Court in order to protect the Montana State Constitution, which he feels has withstood the test of time because it is non-partisan and is overwhelmingly supported by Montana voters. He believes that democracy depends on an independent judiciary and that fairness and impartiality are key principles for the Chief Justice. Jerry believes in evaluating each case by the facts presented, precedent, our Constitution, and existing laws. This includes upholding the strong precedent and Constitutional rights that protect Montana’s stream and public lands access.

Katherine Bidegaray for Supreme Court Justice #3

Judge Katherine Bidegaray was born and raised in Richland County and is a two-time graduate of the University of Montana. Her legal career began in 1985 as a staff attorney for the Montana State Auditor’s Office. She then entered private practice and became the owner-operator of her family ranch in 1989. She has been serving as a Montana District Court Judge since 2003. Katherine is seeking a seat on the Montana Supreme Court because she believes that our legal system and the rights it protects — including privacy, education, and the conservation of Montana’s landscapes — are facing significant threats. She believes that non-partisan justices are essential for upholding our Constitution, defending Montana values and rights, and maintaining a fair and impartial judiciary. She is committed to ensuring that the rights enshrined in our Constitution are effectively protected.

Erin Farris-Olsen for Clerk of the Supreme Court

Erin Farris-Olsen is an attorney who has worked as a law clerk for the high court and within the office of the state court administrator. As the first line of support for those seeking justice, Erin intends to restore Montanans’ trust in the Clerk’s office to process filings and issues before the Supreme Court. She believes that, along with Supreme Court Justices, the Clerk of the Montana Supreme Court should not be a partisan position. To that end, she intends to serve the position impartially and she would support legislation to change the position into a non-partisan race. Erin supports protecting public lands and public access and recognizes that the Supreme Court is the last line of defense for our constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment.

Public Service Commission

Susan Bilo for District 2

Susan Bilo is an instructor at Montana State University-Gallatin College with over 25 years of energy efficiency and renewable energy experience. Susan is running for office because she feels that, with the recent electricity and natural gas rate hikes, Montana’s hard-working citizens and businesses are not being fairly represented and protected by their current PSC representatives. She believes that Montana can attain clean, affordable, and reliable energy infrastructure. Susan aims to ensure that renewable energy sources, which are cost-competitive with and often cheaper than traditional fuel sources, are given fair and due consideration to address costs and climate change. She would also encourage the expansion and marketing of utility efficiency rebates that lead to reduced energy use and lower bills, and she would invite competition from businesses that want to build cost-effective renewable energy projects.

Elena Evans for District 4

Elena Evans is a geologist, working mother, and Independent candidate running for Montana’s PSC District 4. She currently works as Missoula County’s environmental health manager. Through her career as a public servant, Elena has developed a unique understanding of how complex rules and regulations affect local people. As Commissioner, she aims to work with regulated entities to prioritize the infrastructure necessary to reliably provide utility services over the next 50 years. Elena is ready to use her knowledge, experience, and skills on the PSC to set up Montana’s energy future for the next generation and cut costs for regular Montanans instead of cutting deals with Northwestern Energy.

Montana State Senate

Rep. Dave Fern for SD 2

Rep. Dave Fern has been a small business owner for the past 25 years. He first started working in local government as a trustee on the Whitefish School Board, where he served for 24 years. He has served four terms in the Montana House as the representative from Whitefish. Dave is a proven champion for our way of life — he cherishes our public lands and will do everything it takes to keep Montana from becoming a playground for the ultrawealthy. He has been previously endorsed by MCV and scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard. Dave is also an MCV Lifetime Champion.

Link Neimark for SD 5

Link Neimark has worked as a scientist, an educator, and the owner and operator of a rock climbing guide service. Link previously ran for a U.S. House of Representatives seat in the 2017 special election to represent Montana. Although he did not secure his party’s nomination, his desire to be a voice for Montanans remains. Link would like to see more areas in the state designated as Wildlife Management Areas and in the 2025 Legislature, he would like to support legislation to stop the transfer of federal lands to state control. He aims to tap into federal funding to transition to clean energy, and he would oppose any measures which seek to disenfranchise select portions of the electorate. 

Montana State House of Representatives

Debo Powers for HD 3

Debo Powers served as a Montana House member from October 2019 to January 2021 after the prior representative resigned. Debo is a retired public-school teacher and principal, and she lives and works in HD 3 as volunteer wilderness patrol in Glacier National Park and as a volunteer fire lookout in Flathead National Forest. She has served on the boards of four Montana nonprofit conservation organizations and has an extensive record as a public lands advocate. As a legislator, she will continue to be an unapologetic champion for public lands and supporter of our constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment. She will also root out and work against attempts to lower water quality standards through subdivision and development rules. She intends to work hard to protect an independent judiciary and stand strong against any attempts to decrease the effectiveness of our democracy.

Lindsey Jordan for HD 4

Lindsey Jordan was born and raised in the Flathead Valley. Lindsey works as a licensed therapist in healthcare and school settings, providing crisis intervention and trauma counseling for adolescents and teens. As a legislator, she would support policies that ensure and expand energy freedom in Montana. Lindsey also aims to support and defend our Montana Constitution and the rights all Montanans have to access our public lands. She also wants to champion legislation that follows through on requiring corporations and the EPA to clean polluted sites and protect our waterways. Lindsey believes that limiting voting rights is unacceptable, and she would prioritize equality and rights for all citizens regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. 

Beth Sibert for HD 8

Beth Sibert grew up in the woods near Tally Lake. Beth has been working at Kalispell Regional/Logan Health for 19 years, where she is currently a recreational therapist. As a legislator, she will push to expand Montana state public lands and access to them. Beth will also prioritize the efforts to maintain Montana’s clean drinking water, especially in light of the forever contaminants recently discovered in the drinking water in the Flathead Valley.

Jennifer Allen for HD 11

Jennifer Allen spent her career serving others in the mental health and social work fields — working in prisons, community mental health centers, and residential and vocational programs. As a legislator, Jennifer will support funding for our conservation-focused agencies to ensure they can respond to the crises we face — such as population growth, overuse, and development. She will also support same day voter registration, absentee ballot voting, liberal voter ID processes, and reasonable ballot collection procedures. 

Shirley Azzopardi for HD 13

Shirley Azzopardi was a special education teacher in public schools for 30 years. Shirley currently works as an early childhood educator for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. As a legislator, she intends to protect Montanans’ constitutional right to privacy, help find a solution to corner crossings and secure access to public lands. Shirley will also support legislation to expand clean energy technology that makes solar and wind energy more accessible, as well as laws strengthening voter rights.

County Commission

Josh Slotnick for Missoula County Commissioner

Josh Slotnick has been farming in Missoula with his wife on their family farm since 1992. In 1996, he co-founded Garden City Harvest and a community farm run in partnership with the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Montana. Josh’s conservation-based objectives include partnering with agencies and organizations on efforts including distributed solar and wind energy production on both the individual and community scale. Josh was previously endorsed by MCV when he initially ran for this seat in 2018.

Montana State Senate

Devin Jackson for SD 45

Devin Jackson grew up in the Bitterroot and served on the Lolo Community Council for 15 years. Devin supports a just transition to renewable energy sources in Montana by making sure that workers get fairly compensated. Additionally, he wants to ensure Montanans maintain access to public lands, public waters, and public wildlife. He also aims to increase Department of Environmental Quality regulations to protect Montana’s 170,000 miles of rivers and 3,200 named lakes from unchecked mining operations.

Jacinda Morigeau for SD 46

Jacinda Morigeau is a Bitterroot Salish woman and an enrolled member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Jacinda currently serves as Vice-Chairperson on the Board of Directors at All Nations Health Center, as a member of the Montana Women Vote Advisory Board, and as Communications Manager at United Way of Missoula County. In the 2025 Montana Legislature and beyond, she aims to champion conservation initiatives that uphold the Montana Constitution and protect the right to vote, especially in Indian Country. This entails ensuring equitable access to the polls for all Montanans, particularly Indigenous peoples, and advocating for policies that safeguard Indigenous peoples’ rights and honor their sovereignty, including meaningful consultation on conservation decisions and the protection of sacred lands. 

Sen. Ellie Boldman for SD 47*

Sen. Ellie Boldman is an attorney and mom who represented Missoula in the state House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019 before becoming a Senator in 2020. In the 2025 Legislature, Ellie will maintain her solid voting record in support of our Constitutional rights, including a clean and healthful environment and access to voting. Ellie has been previously endorsed by MCV and scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard. She is also an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Montana State House of Representatives

Rep. Mark Thane for HD 89*

Rep. Mark Thane is a University of Montana graduate who had a thirty-nine year career in Missoula County’s Public Schools before retiring as superintendent in 2019. His community engagement has included service on a number of local boards, and his experience has taught him that the best decisions are made only after all perspectives have been heard and all ideas thoroughly vetted. Mark was first elected to the legislature in 2021. His priorities include affordable and accessible healthcare and case management services, high-quality public schools and the Montana University System, access to our public lands and waterways, and investment in workforce development. Mark scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Shelly Fyant for HD 91

Shelly Fyant was raised on a ranch in Arlee, which instilled a strong work ethic and the value of community. As former Chairwoman of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, she applied those values to working with state and federal leaders as well as influential organizations and businesses. Shelly also worked for the U.S. Forest Service in the Region One Information Office and the Powell Ranger District while attending the University of Montana, and she helped create the Three Chiefs Cultural Center. She agrees that Montana is the “Last Best Place” and, as such, needs unwavering protection of the environment so that future generations can enjoy what we have enjoyed. She believes maintaining fisheries, wildlife habitats, and clean air and water should be priorities for the state, as well as fighting any voter suppression efforts. 

Rep. Connie Keogh for HD 92*

Rep. Connie Keogh grew up on a ranch in Roscoe, Montana. Connie was a first-generation college student and went on to teach elementary and special education for over 20 years. She has served as a legislator since 2019 and brought her strong work ethic and persistence to the office by serving on the Education, Judiciary, and Agriculture Committees. She will continue to champion the environment by advocating for clean energy and moving us toward renewables, lobbying for net metering practices and community solar opportunities, and working to enable homeowners to purchase solar or enhance their homes through energy conservation methods. Connie will ensure our public lands and sacred places are kept in public hands, and hold industry accountable for their impact to our environment. Connie scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Rep. Katie Sullivan for HD 93*

During the 2023 session, House Minority Whip Rep. Katie Sullivan acted as a consistent voice for common-sense legislation on issues of conservation, democracy, and energy. Katie worked hard to fend off attacks on the Habitat Montana portion of the recreational marijuana tax revenue all while serving as the Vice Chair of the House Energy, Technology and Federal Relations Committee. Her work on this committee was essential to forcing honest conversations about energy freedom and the future of energy production in Montana. Katie scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Rep. Marilyn Marler for HD 94*

Rep. Marilyn Marler worked at the University of Montana as a botanist, science educator, and manager of natural areas on Mt. Sentinel and at Fort Missoula before starting a new role as Executive Director of the Montana Natural History Center on September 16, 2024. Marilyn previously served three terms on the Missoula City Council, including eight years as Council President. During her five-year tenure in the House of Representatives, she has demonstrated that she can get things done. Marilyn is a strong advocate for wildlife, public lands, and conservation, and her deep knowledge of fish and wildlife issues was an essential factor in her leadership as Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and member of the House Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Committees. She has been a steady voice for democracy and has introduced important legislation to update the state’s hunting laws to better support resident hunters. Marilyn scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Rep. Zooey Zephyr for HD 95*

Rep. Zooey Zephyr spent much of her adult life working as a public employee for the University of Montana, as well as working as a community advocate. Zooey currently serves Missoula as a legislator, and she is running for re-election because she believes that the best way to fight for social and economic justice is to get into the room where the laws are being written. She has a history of supporting pro-climate policies in the Montana State Legislature, speaking up passionately on the issues that set her apart, and working with folks at the national level who have been progressive champions of climate action. She believes there are positive legislative solutions to be worked toward, including promoting renewable energy, working to preserve and care for our public lands, improving infrastructure and public transportation across Montana, and working to promote smart growth within Montana’s cities. Zooey scored 86% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Rep. Bob Carter for HD 96*

Rep. Bob Carter grew up working on farms and ranches in central Montana before attending the University of Montana. Bob had a career in software development and as chief information officer of various leasing and business finance related companies before being elected to the legislature, where he’s been assigned to the Agriculture, Business and Labor, and Transportation Committees. He is a stay-at-home dad, foster parent, and volunteer for the boards of several civic, nonprofit, agriculture, childhood and education related causes in Missoula. This width and breadth of life experience is what he takes to the legislature. Some of Bob’s priorities include voting rights, public lands, wildlife habitat, enjoying and protecting our natural resources, and renewable energy. Bob scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Melody Cunningham for HD 97

Melody Cunningham has been a practicing pediatrician for 30 years caring for children with cancer and children at end-of-life. Her decades of medical experience and advocacy for children and families enable Melody to bring civil and thoughtful decision-making to the Montana House of Representatives. During the last legislative session, Melody testified in Helena nearly weekly on bills that were important for children, families, climate and education. She was able to connect across the aisle and hopes to bring that experience to the 2025 session. Melody realizes that protection of our environment promotes resiliency and our local economies. She is a stalwart supporter of clean energy technology and believes that the only way to ensure the future of the planet for our children and grandchildren is to transition to sustainable energy sources. Her specific legislative priorities include reviving conservation financing specifically for Habitat Montana and fighting to ensure that the legislature does not make judicial appointees partisan.

Rep. Jonathan Karlen for HD 98*

Rep. Jonathan Karlen works as a research associate at the University of Montana’s Boone and Crockett Wildlife Conservation Program. Jonathan is also an instructor with the Clark Fork Watershed Education Program and coaches skiing on the weekends with the Missoula Ski Education Foundation. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Montana. Jonathan has served in the Montana House of Representatives since 2023, where he was assigned to the Business and Labor; Natural Resources; Legislative Administration; and Fish, Wildlife & Parks Committees. Last session, he fought legislation aimed at weakening Montana’s climate and environmental protection laws. He also sponsored several bills, including one that supported resident hunters and anglers by enacting quotas for several non-resident license types that have no cap. Jonathan scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Rep. Tom France for HD 99*

Rep. Tom France has a law degree and worked for the National Wildlife Federation before retiring in 2020. Tom has served in the Montana House of Representatives since 2021, where he was assigned to the Judiciary; Natural Resources; and Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committees. He most recently sponsored a bill limiting the number of Smith River permits available to non-residents to no more than 10% of the total permits and allocating a portion of the user fees to fund projects that protect, enhance, and restore the river’s natural and recreational resources. Tom is very interested in net metering and finding ways to reward Montanans who invest in renewable energy, and it is his highest priority to keep public lands in public hands. Tom scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion.

Rep. SJ Howell for HD 100*

Rep. SJ Howell grew up in Billings before moving to Missoula to attend undergrad at the University of Montana. SJ serves as a legislator for Missoula and is the executive director of the statewide nonprofit organization Montana Women Vote, where they initially worked as an advocate and organizer at the State Legislature from 2013 to 2021. They believe that Montanans deserve to have access to the ballot without cumbersome barriers, and in light of policy makers passing voter suppression laws during the 2021 Montana legislative session, they will fight against similar attempts moving forward. In addition to supporting Montanans’ right to vote and our independent judiciary, SJ will support any legislation that leverages funding for energy freedom, protects Montana’s rivers and lakes, and protects and maintains our public lands, waters, and wildlife. SJ scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Montana State Senate

Cora Neumann for SD 30

Cora Neumann is a rural health and economic development leader with a track record of delivering results for underserved and rural communities, improving access to health care, and protecting our public lands. Cora is running for state Senate to ensure that Montanans have access to good jobs and wages, that our small businesses can succeed, and that our public lands and waterways remain public for the benefit of our families and future generations. She is interested in exploring legislation that ensures a balanced and fair transition to clean energy, and she will introduce legislation to ensure that Montana’s water sources are safeguarded from industrial pollution and other unsustainable land use practices. Cora will also fight attacks on voting access, push for more voting centers, and advocate to streamline the absentee ballot process. She firmly believes that we should solidify and protect access for commonly disenfranchised voter groups like Native Americans and students.

Sen. Chris Pope for SD 33*

Sen. Chris Pope is a successful Bozeman businessman and community leader. In his eight years in Helena — including two terms in the Montana House of Representatives and two terms in the Senate — he has advocated for a strong, transparent and efficient state government capable of finding practical solutions to the leading issues of the day. Chris believes that the continued stewardship of Montana’s world-class environment and wildlife is essential to the state’s future economic success. He will fight for access to public lands, clean air and water, and a serious pragmatic approach to addressing climate change. He will also advocate on behalf of energy conservation and renewable energy development. He sponsored several bills last session, including one aimed at establishing regulations for community solar energy facilities in the state. Chris was previously endorsed by MCV and scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Sara Novak for SD 36

Sara Novak has been working as an educator for almost 20 years. Previously, she represented District 77 in the Montana House of Representatives, where she fought for MCV values while serving on the Business and Labor; Education; and Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committees. Sara fully supports Habitat Montana, and policies that promote a clean and healthy environment as well as conservation of our waters and fish habitats. She is concerned about voter suppression and will support policies that promote the inclusion of marginalized groups in our democracy.

Bruce Shultz for SD 39

Bruce Shultz is a rancher and a graduate of the University of Montana. He has worked in forestry and crop adjusting across 33 counties in Montana. Bruce believes we need to invest in renewable energy, keep our stream access laws intact, clarify corner crossings to access public land, and incentivize landowners to allow hunting on their property. As a legislator, he will also vigorously endorse maintaining Habitat Montana.

Rep. Laura Smith for SD 40

Rep. Laura Smith is a former federal prosecutor and currently serves as the Deputy Director of the State Health Department. She has experience advocating in multiple legislative sessions. In 2022, Laura was an MCV-endorsed candidate who ran for and won a House seat in Helena. During the 2023 session, she was a staunch advocate of Montana’s wild places, advocating for legislation that keeps public lands open to all. Laura will continue to fight against any attempts to sell off public lands, decrease the quality of our air and water, or sell Montana’s wildlife to the highest bidder. Wherever possible, she will work for policies that help Montana’s farmers and ranchers see the benefits of conservation initiatives that keep their businesses viable and thriving so that wildlife and the public at large can share in the open space and habitat agriculture provides. Laura scored 83% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Montana State House of Representatives

Scott Rosenzweig for HD 57

Scott Rosenzweig is a parent, entrepreneur, business leader, active community member, volunteer, and runner. Scott is currently a partner in a small technology and communications company and a co-owner of several small businesses located within his district. He is particularly interested in expanding and championing public access to public lands, and he supports all efforts to increase and expand voter access, including supporting same-day voter registration and increased absentee ballot voting and ballot-collection options.

Jamie Isaly for HD 58

Jamie Isaly taught for more than 30 years in the Livingston School District at both the high school and middle school levels. He has also served as a builder, small business owner, and coach. MCV previously endorsed Jamie in 2022 when he ran for the state Senate. If elected to the Montana House in 2024, Jamie will advocate for and support bills which update energy production methods, implement pollution control standards that help to reduce waste and emissions, and protect and maintain our valuable water sources. Keeping our public lands accessible and conserving Montana’s resources for generations to come are also at the top of his list of concerns.

Rep. Ed Stafman for HD 59*

Rep. Ed Stafman has some 25 years of legal experience as a civil rights and criminal defense attorney. He also spent eight years in rabbinic school, simultaneously completing the coursework toward a PhD in religion. Ed believes that, with abundant wind and sun, Montana is well suited to shift to renewable energy, and even to be a renewable energy exporter, while creating good jobs and tax revenues. He has previously introduced legislation that would have reduced carbon output from Northwestern Energy by a third, while also saving ratepayers millions. The bills were tabled twice, but he intends to try again. Ed has also worked and will continue to work tirelessly to defeat efforts to develop and/or privatize our public lands. In 2023, he countered attacks on voting rights through his work as the lone House Democrat on the Special Select Committee on Election Integrity. Ed scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Alanah Griffith for HD 60

Alanah Griffith was born in Big Sky and raised in Four Corners, and now wants to put her more than two decades of legal experience to work in Helena. Alanah has spent her life enjoying the unparalleled hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, and camping that our public lands offer, and she intends to support ways to improve access such as the Unlocking Public Lands program. She will work to balance the interests of landowners with conservation efforts and to find win-win solutions to issues like access, just as she has done through her legal career, which includes securing the Bear Canyon Access that many local residents enjoy today.

Becky Edwards for HD 61

Becky Edwards is the founder and executive director of the conservation nonprofit Mountain Mamas, which focuses on elevating women’s voices on conservation issues. For the past 15 years, Becky has devoted her career to influencing federal and state legislation that protects public lands, clean air and water, and a healthy climate. She also led the coalition to permanently reauthorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which funds everything from soccer fields to large landscape conservation. Becky’s priorities include securing adequate conservation funding, which the voters of Montana voted for and supported during the last two legislative sessions, and which we desperately need in an era of rapid growth. She also intends to prioritize investing in clean energy jobs, developing a bold state climate action plan, and protecting our Montana Constitution from attacks on our rights to privacy and a healthy environment.

Josh Seckinger for HD 62

Josh Seckinger has a diverse work background spanning seismic mapping, food distribution, newspaper printing, and construction labor. He discovered his true passion as a fly-fishing guide a decade ago, specializing in guiding Montana’s renowned rivers such as the Yellowstone, Gallatin, Madison, and Smith. Josh is unwaveringly dedicated to preserving clean air, clean water, and our esteemed public lands, and he staunchly opposes any transfer of federal lands to state control, understanding the dangers of privatizing these valued resources. Josh intends to champion a renewed commitment to keep our water clean, a commitment to responsible development (particularly in headwaters communities), expanded public access to public lands, and a commitment to allowing voters to express their minds, particularly concerning ballot initiatives.

Peter Strand for HD 63

Peter Strand served with the Bozeman Public Schools for nearly three decades. He decided to run for office after getting exasperated with daily developments in the legislature and realizing that making calls and sending emails wasn’t enough. Peter is now ready to make the leap to serving Bozeman as a legislator. His priorities include confronting NorthWestern Energy’s lock on Montana’s energy portfolio and their focus on maximizing profit rather than reducing pollution and energy costs for Montanans. Peter also wants to ensure that wealthy landowners don’t get priority access to public lands and hunting rights.

Rep. Kelly Kortum for HD 64*

Rep. Kelly Kortum grew up in Ekalaka and moved to Bozeman to attend Montana State University. He now works at Bozeman’s Community Food Co-op as a systems administrator. Kelly became involved in the day-to-day politics of Bozeman in the summer of 2015 and he went on to co-found a local non-partisan group called Gallatin Progressive Action Network. He believes public lands are a blessing and responsibility for all of us, and that privatizing public lands is theft from future generations. Kelly also believes voting is an essential right of all American citizens, and that efforts to restrict any citizen’s ability to vote directly threatens our freedom, liberty, and shared future. Kelly scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard and is an MCV Lifetime Champion. 

Brian Close for HD 65

Brian Close arrived in Bozeman in the fall of 1994 for a teaching assistant job at Montana State University. Brian immediately became involved in the community by joining the GALAVAN Board, where he chaired a city task force that recommended the creation of public transit in Bozeman. In 2004, Brian was elected to the Bozeman City Study Commission, which passed the first successful city charter in 2008. As a member of the city planning board, he wrote the first light pollution ordinance adopted by a city in Montana, and as Chairman of the Bozeman Parks & Recreation Board, he helped facilitate the creation of the Bozeman Park District, which was approved by the voters in 2020. His priorities include reviving conservation financing and promoting renewable energy.

Rep. Eric Matthews for HD 66*

Rep. Eric Matthews was born and raised in Bozeman and earned two degrees from Montana State University. Eric, also known as “Big E”, has been a teacher at Chief Joseph Middle School for 25 years and serves as the vice president of the Bozeman Education Association and on the board of the Montana Federation of Public Employees. Last session, Eric served on the Business and Labor; Education; and Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Committees. He believes efforts to limit voting infringe on our freedoms, liberties, and rights, and that we need to maintain the strength and integrity of our voting system by encouraging every citizen to register and vote. Eric intends to support any and all legislation that makes access for voting easier. He also believes that Montana citizens have the right to access public lands, and that all citizens deserve to have these lands respected and protected from exploitation. Eric scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Carl Anderson for HD 67

Carl Anderson was born and raised in Forsyth, Montana, where the great outdoors were a way of life. Carl is running for office because he believes we must find common ground and that, together, we can forge a new beginning as friends, neighbors, and Montanans. His educational background is in psychology, biochemistry, and astrobiology, and it is this knowledge and background that he will bring to the state legislature. He believes that sustainable growth is essential and that every Montana child is guaranteed a clean and healthful environment, as enshrined in the Montana State Constitution. As such, he will support or carry legislation that will seek to conserve our ecosystems and wildlife for future generations to enjoy.

Nancy Jane Lien for HD 75

Nancy Jane Lien was born and raised on a wheat farm and cattle ranch south of Wolf Point. Nancy graduated with honors from Montana State University. She has held several roles in Montana, including serving six years on the Ennis City Council and working as executive director of the Jack Creek Road Task Force to establish a Scenic Byway between the Madison Valley and Big Sky. She is currently employed as a contracts administrator in the oil and gas industry, overseeing the construction of compression facilities and pipelines. She believes that our public lands must be main­tained and kept in public ownership and vows to protect our Constitution to preserve our constitutional rights and protections.

Luke Muszkiewicz for HD 79

Luke Muszkiewicz was born and raised in Helena, where he still lives with his family. Luke works as a software engineer and data analyst and served on the Helena school board for six years. When the sun is shining, he loves to backpack, camp, float, and ski. Luke’s legislative priorities include public education and advocating on behalf of the Montana Constitution. He is committed to preserving our rights to privacy, public land access, and a clean and healthy environment.

Rep. Melissa Romano for HD 80*

Rep. Melissa Romano was raised in Helena, where she still lives and teaches today. Melissa’s stellar achievements in education have opened doors to numerous leadership opportunities. Through these roles, she has collaborated with communities across Montana and the nation while actively engaging with educators, parents, administrators, and students. As a current legislator, Melissa is a fierce advocate for the constitutional rights to privacy and a clean environment. Melissa scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Rep. Mary Caferro for HD 81*

Rep. Mary Caferro attended the University of Montana-Helena and volunteered for Working for Equality and Economic Liberation, eventually becoming its executive director. Mary is a direct care worker for individuals who have disabilities. Experienced in Helena politics, she served in the Montana House from 2005 to 2010 and 2019 to today, as well as the Senate from 2011 to 2018. Mary scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard. 

Pete Elverum for HD 82

Pete Elverum is an attorney and army veteran. Through college and law school, Pete spent his summers as a wildland firefighter. He graduated from Montana State University in 2006 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He then attended Gonzaga Law School and came home to pass the Montana bar before choosing to enter active duty. Today, he continues to serve the community as a city attorney and as a Command Judge Advocate in the Montana National Guard. His priorities include fighting any attempt to limit access to Montana’s public lands, sell them to private corporations, or transfer their management to the state. On democracy, Pete intends to fight against the continued onslaught of legislation which seeks to undermine active civic engagement.

Rep. Jill Cohenour for HD 83*

Rep. Jill Cohenour was born in Havre and now lives in East Helena. Jill earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Montana and has been a chemist at the Montana State Environmental Lab for over 30 years. She is a current legislator in the Helena area and previously served in the Montana House from 2003 to 2010, as well as the Senate from 2015 to 2022, where she was also the Senate Minority Leader. Jill sponsored several bills in 2023, including one with a provision aimed to prohibit preventing, restricting, or obstructing lawful public access to land for hunting or fishing. She views reducing property taxes, improving access to housing, growing our quality public education, and protecting access to our amazing public lands and waters as the top priorities for the 2025 Legislature. Jill scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard. 

Michele Crepeau for HD 84

Michele Crepeau graduated from the law school at the University of Montana in 1999 and moved to Helena to work as the primary property tax attorney for the Montana Department of Revenue, where she interpreted existing laws, worked with the legislature to draft proposed laws, and worked with stakeholders to improve Montana’s property tax system. She went on to become the Department’s Chief Administrative Law Judge before retiring in 2023. Michele stepped out of retirement and into politics for three primary reasons: 1) to fix our property tax system, 2) to increase access to public lands, and 3) to ensure that the system of checks and balances established by both the U.S. and Montana constitutions is not destroyed.

Montana State House of Representatives

Jane Weber for HD 19

Jane Weber served as a Cascade County Commissioner from September 2010 to January 2021. Her proudest accomplishments include working on the Black Eagle Superfund cleanup, reconstructing Fox Farm Road, and helping to revise Cascade County zoning regulations. Prior to serving, Jane worked at Lewis and Clark National Forest for over 25 years — doing everything from running a chainsaw to thin a stand of trees to funding and managing the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which has become a national destination. As a legislator, Jane intends to support legislation that ensures access to our public lands and waterways, and oppose legislation that allows private property owners to deny access. Additionally, she aims to champion legislation to safeguard the sanctity of voting by mail and same-day registration and voting, which are especially important in rural and tribal communities.

Rina Fontana Moore for HD 20

Rina Fontana Moore previously served as the Cascade County Clerk and Recorder for 16 years. As the Cascade County Elections Administrator from 2007 to 2022, Rina witnessed and endured relentless election fraud attacks. As a legislator, she aims to pass legislation that enforces a penalty for election interference rather than just a slap on the hand. She is also an advocate for same-day voter registration and absentee ballot voting, and she aims to ensure that all citizens in Montana have unrestricted access to vote.

Sandor Hopkins for HD 23

Sandor Hopkins is a project manager for a land surveying company that does business across Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. Last session, Sandor served on a working group that drafted the Montana Land Use Planning Act — an effort to address inadequate housing supply and soaring costs of living — which passed with broad bipartisan support. As a legislator, he wants to work with local Conservation Districts to reduce hurdles to stream bank restoration projects, oppose rural/suburban sprawl, and fight against efforts to disenfranchise voters or make participation in our electoral process more difficult.

Rep. Paul Tuss for HD 27*

Rep. Paul Tuss has worked in the nonprofit economic and community development sector of northern Montana’s economy for nearly 30 years, the past 24 years serving five counties and two reservations in the Havre area as the executive director of Bear Paw Development Corporation. Paul came in strong as a freshman legislator, landing a perfect 100% score in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard as a fierce advocate for conservation and democracy. He made his mark in the Appropriations Committee where he asked hard-hitting questions, most notably during the legislature’s attempt to redirect marijuana tax revenue away from Habitat Montana. During the 2025 session, Paul will resist efforts to sell off public lands to the highest bidder and he will continue fighting to assure access to our state’s public lands and waterways. 

Andrea Payne for HD 37

Andrea Payne taught preschool through grade eight in public and private schools for over 29 years. Andrea has been retired from teaching for almost 10 years, during which time she has been an office manager/treasurer at her church and a volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club and the Council on Aging. As a legislator, she will support opportunities for solar and wind energy and oppose privatizing and selling off public lands. Andrea also believes in keeping our courts non-partisan and independent, and she will fight any bills that threaten our voting rights, limit our right to privacy, or support unequal taxation.

Billings Region

Montana State Senate

Mark Nicholson for SD 24

Dr. Mark Nicholson is a retired physician in family practice and psychiatry. As a legislator, Mark would support measures that would protect and fully fund Habitat Montana, which he views as crucial for fish and wildlife, public access to public lands, and family farms and ranches. He also aims to protect instream flows, which is important for fish populations, recreational activities, and overall water quality. He supports electing judges and Supreme Court justices on non-partisan ballots and protecting our right to vote, open government, voter participation in our elections, and the initiative process. 

Karen Lyncoln for SD 26

Karen Lyncoln worked for over 50 years as a social scientist with an emphasis on human impact studies related to environmental projects, public engagement, and sustainable land use. As a legislator, Karen will support Habitat Montana and work closely with other advocates on specific pieces of conservation and public access legislation, and she will support legislation that strengthens our democratic practices.

Montana State House of Representatives

Melissa Smith for HD 39

Melissa Smith works as a website developer and has experience in management and marketing. Alongside her work to support herself and her family, Melissa has been involved in community service all her life. She is running for office to protect our Montana Constitution and the rights of all Montanans. As a legislator, Melissa wants to work on expanding voter access as well as protecting our independent judiciary so that our constitutional protections continue to be upheld. She additionally aims to focus on growing our economy through clean energy jobs.

Alexander Clark for HD 43

Alexander Clark is an Air Force veteran and longtime community organizer who received his Bachelors of Science in outdoor adventure leadership from Montana State University Billings. In the 2025 Montana Legislature and beyond, Alexander aims to support renewable energy legislation and enhance resilience efforts to mitigate wildfires and droughts. Additionally, he will advocate for robust funding for conservation programs like Habitat Montana to preserve vital wildlife habitat and public lands. He supports measures to increase transparency and accountability in government, as well as a vibrant and inclusive democracy that reflects the values and interests of all Montanans.

Rep. Denise Baum for HD 45*

Rep. Denise Baum proudly served the City of Billings as a law-enforcement officer for over 20 years, with the last 15 years assigned to the Investigations Division as a detective. Denise has served in the Montana House of Representatives since last session, where she was assigned to the State Administration; Transportation; and Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committees. She intends to continue advocating for ethical wildlife management and land conservation efforts to preserve access and enjoyment for generations to come. Denise scored 100% in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard.

Rep. Emma Kerr-Carpenter for HD 46*

Rep. Emma Kerr-Carpenter has spent her career working with youth and their families to overcome poverty, trauma, and crisis. During the past three legislative sessions Emma has fought to fund public safety in Billings, defend healthcare for all Montanans, protect the environment, and strengthen public education. She believes that one of Montana’s greatest treasures is the beauty of its natural spaces, and she will continue fighting to ensure that all Montanans enjoy clean air and water and have access to our beautiful outdoors. Emma has been a strong champion for clean water, clean air, public lands, and democracy, as showcased by her 95% lifetime score in MCV’s 2023 Legislative Scorecard. 

James Reavis for HD 47

James Reavis earned a law degree from the University of Montana and a master’s in public administration before serving as a public defender for 11 years. James recently entered private practice to work in family law, criminal defense, and appeals before the Montana Supreme Court. He supports protecting fundamental rights guaranteed by the U.S. and Montana Constitutions as well as a healthy environment, clean air, and clean water. His priorities include sponsoring legislation to use federal funding to replace the fixtures and pipes in our lead-positive schools, and supporting a cleaner energy future by laying out clear ground rules for the Public Service Commission.

Anne Ross for HD 48

Anne Ross is an artist, mother and entrepreneur with experience as an adult educator, social work case manager, spa manager, retail and hospitality worker, janitor, nanny, cook, and gig labor worker. Anne believes that we all deserve access to the incredible natural resources that make Montana an exceptional state, and that we stand to lose this access if people in power succeed in their attempts to pave the way for the privatization of public lands. She also intends to clear the path again for voter initiatives to make it on the ballot and to hold our Secretary of State, Attorney General, and other election administrators accountable when they make obvious attempts to subvert the will of the voters.

Rudolf Haden for HD 49

Rudolf Haden enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1993. He received a Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship to the University of Colorado at Boulder, deployed in support of multiple missions throughout the 2000s, and earned a master’s degree while completing a fellowship at the U.S. Naval War College. Rudolf was promoted to Commander in 2019, completing a navy journey that started as an entry-level enlisted member. He retired from the U.S. Navy in 2021 to Billings, where he began working as a substitute teacher with Billings Public Schools. Realizing how much he misses serving a cause greater than himself, Rudolf has enthusiastically decided to pursue public office. His priorities include rebuilding and refurbishing rail and highway bridges, assessing industry and infrastructure over or near our precious waterways, and advocating for same-day voter registration and absentee balloting. 

Janna Hafer for HD 51

Janna Hafer has served on the Billings School Board of Trustees since 2013. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Montana State University and is the chief financial officer and co-owner of a small business in Billings. Janna is an Independent candidate who believes independently-minded Montanans want to retain their rights to hunt, fish, and explore their public lands without interference. As a legislator, she will be a champion of public lands, push back against centralized control over our Supreme Court, and ensure that energy monopolies are held accountable to the people of Montana.

Kim Gillan for HD 55

Kim Gillan was elected to the Montana State House in 1996 to represent the west side of Billings Heights. She went on to serve as the Heights Senator until 2012. Kim was previously endorsed by MCV, and during her 16 years serving in the legislature, she developed a reputation as an independent thinker — not afraid to ask questions and vote with common sense. Kim is running for office now because she feels that Carbon County residents need a strong and effective voice to stick up for their rural way of life. She feels very strongly about conserving and continuing access to Montana’s open spaces and she supports legislation to facilitate community solar/renewable resources and consider additional tax incentives to encourage residents to make this transition.