The role of the Supreme Court is to ensure that the laws are applied equally to everyone. Montana is one of only 13 states which have nonpartisan elections for Supreme Court Justices. However, there are efforts by some extremist legislators to make these elections partisan. We must keep politics out of our judicial system.
Our state courts play a powerful and critical role in protecting our rights. In many states, including Montana, the courts are our last line of defense against extremist politicians. Learn more about the importance of our state courts, the moment we’re in, and what we can do to ensure our state courts remain independent and continue to protect our rights enshrined in the Montana Constitution.
In the November 2024 election, four candidates are running for two open seats on the Montana Supreme Court. Learn more about each candidate and make sure to vote for this (and every) race on the ballot.
Justice Dirk Sandefur’s Seat
Professional Experience: District Judge, Justice of the Peace, Prosecutor, County Attorney, Private Practice (family law, real estate, criminal defense)
Montana Free Press Election 2024 Guide – Dan Wilson
Justice Dirk Sandefur’s Seat
Professional Experience: District Judge, State Auditor’s Office, Prosecutor, Defense Attorney
Montana Free Press Election 2024 Guide – Katherine Bidegary
Chief Justice McGrath’s Seat
Past Experience: Federal magistrate court judge, private practice
Montana Free Press Election 2024 Guide – Jerry Lynch
Chief Justice McGrath’s Seat
Past Experience: County Attorney, Deputy Attorney General under Tim Fox, Prosecutor, 27 years in Montana Army National Guard
Montana Free Press Election 2024 Guide – Cory Swanson
To learn more about the judicial system and the role of judges, check out these great resources.