How does this election connect to the recent Western Native Voice ruling?
In March, 2024, the Montana Supreme Court ruled in favor of a collection of Native American organizations and tribes, holding in Western Native Voice et al. v. Jacobsen et al that two state laws hindering Native American participation in the state’s electoral process violate the fundamental right to vote under the Montana Constitution. The Court specifically found that the two laws made it “much more difficult on average for people living on reservations to either get to a polling place on or before election day, or to mail an absentee ballot prior to election day.”
Candidate Questionnaire
We asked the candidates for Montana Supreme Court Chief Justice and Associate Justice whether or not they support this ruling
In Western Native Voice v. Jacobsen, the court ruled that laws that limit access to the ballot for Indigenous voters violate the Montana Constitution. Do you agree with the reasoning and holding of this case?
Jerry Lynch, candidate for Chief Justice:
Cory Swanson, candidate for Chief Justice:
“It is not appropriate for a judicial candidate to provide a legal conclusion that may prejudge a future case that may come before the Court. I will judge each case on the facts and my best understanding of the applicable law to that case.”
Katherine Bidegary, candidate for Associate Justice:
Dan Wilson, candidate for Associate Justice:
Did not respond
Click here to learn more about the candidates for Montana Supreme Court Chief Justice and Associate Justice, and their responses to our full candidate questionnaire.
