Candidates from all over Montana started to file for seats in the House of Representatives and the Senate over the past few weeks.

Superior resident Diane Magone is running as a Democrat in House District 14.

Magone grew up in Superior and said her primary goal if elected will be to find solutions that will work for all Montanans.

“I will be listening to find out what people in our area view as problem and then explore how we, as legislators and community members, can address those problems together,” she said.

She intends on working with others in creating a more integrated, sustainable economy for rural Western Montana, “this would include boosting our ability to supply our own energy, food, and jobs while building an economy that can withstand changes in climate, extreme weather and market demands all at the same time.”

With a Master’s in Social Work, Magone has made of career of being a crime victims’ advocate, social worker, and counselor. Though retired from social work, she continues to be involved with her community and is a board member for the Garnet Preservation Association and the Mineral County Library. She also serves as the Chair of the Mineral County Democratic Central Committee and is an active member in both 350MT and the Montana Progressive Democrats.

“I am hoping that those involved in the 2019 Legislative Session will be able to put aside their ideological differences and focus on working on the issues that are really important in Montana, such as the economy and the health and well-being of our citizens,” she said. “One of the biggest task the legislature will face is to create a fair and balanced budget that will not only keep taxes down, but will also preserve services we all need, such as our rural hospitals.”

Around 118 other candidates have filed for the House of Representatives, including St. Regis resident, Denley Loge (R) who is currently holding the office for House District 14. All 100 of the House seats and half of the 50 Senate seats are open. There are about 34 candidates currently filed to run for the Senate. Candidates have until March 12 to file for the Primary Election which will be held on June 5, 2018 with the Federal General Election to be held on November 6.