There is a new Republican contending for State Representative in the first district. Jerry Bennett, an active businessman and volunteer in the Libby community, looks to replace current representative Republican Ralph Heinert who is stepping down after two terms.

Born in Alaska in 1956, Bennett moved to Libby at the age of four. He attended public schools and graduated from Libby High School in 1974. He is married to Malia and has two children, a son and daughter, who both live in Libby.

During his 48 years here, Bennett sat on a number of president and chairman positions. He was president of Libby Chamber of Commerce (and current council member), Libby Saddle Club and Western Division president. He was also chairman of Libby Parks District.

While this is Bennett's first foray into politics, he is confident that his past experience collectively prepares him for the task. “I've always ended up as chairman or president of whatever I do. I feel like I'm equipped to take on the leadership role that is required of a state representative,” he said.

Bennett hopes to meet with Representative Heinert to discuss all the issues at hand, at what needs to be done if he is elected. But he insists that his major goal will be to help Libby businesses and the Lincoln County economy by stimulating job growth and income growth.

“That helps not only Lincoln County, but all of Montana,” he added.

Currently, Bennett is involved in helping the Libby Logger Day Community as well as chairman of St. John's Lutheran Hospital Foundation Board.

Bennett is one of four Republicans running. Among the contenders are Susan Ague, Ginny Emerson and Albert Ross Purviance.

Eileen J. Carney is the lone Democrat who ran in 2006 against Heinert but lost by a small margin.

Freeman Johnson, a member of the Constitution party and Troy resident, is also running for the first district.

The primary will be held June 3 and the general election, Nov. 4.