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Montana committee hears contentious bill to allow partisan judicial races
Summary
SB42 would reintroduce party labels, partisan primaries and party contributions for judges; supporters said party affiliation gives voters clarity while opponents — including the State Bar and tribal groups — warned it would politicize courts and invite outside money.
Senator Daniel Amritsch told the Senate Judiciary Committee that Senate Bill 42 would permit partisan nominations and elections for Supreme Court justices, district court judges and other judicial offices, and would allow political parties to endorse judicial candidates and contribute to campaigns.
"Montanans deserve transparency in judicial elections," Lieutenant Governor Kristin Juris said in proponent testimony, arguing party designations give voters more information on candidates’ principles and values. Supporters — including faith and civic groups —…
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