Reflections on the 2026 Primary Election

As the 2026 Primary Election came to a close with our canvass on June 16, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the many individuals and departments whose dedication made this election a success.

First and foremost, thank you to the more than 100 election judges who served our county with professionalism, integrity and dedication. Their work began long before Election Day, assisting with everything from assembling and stuffing ballot packets to preparing polling places and helping voters navigate the election process.

On Election Day, many of these individuals worked between 15 and 19 hours, serving voters, safeguarding the election process, and accurately and lawfully counting ballots. Their commitment to public service is truly remarkable.

I also want to recognize the outstanding support provided by our County Information Technology Department, Maintenance Department, Sheriff's Office, GIS Department, and County Commissioners. Election administration is a team effort, and the assistance provided by these departments was instrumental to the successful conduct of this election.

A special thank you goes to the County Commissioners for their support in providing our new office space in the Annex Building. This investment has improved our ability to serve voters and administer elections efficiently and securely.

The 2026 Primary Election statistics demonstrate strong voter participation throughout the county:

• Ballots mailed to absentee voters on May 8, 2026: 13,642

• Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act ballots issued: 25

• Total ballots counted: 8,548

• Overall voter turnout: 37.97%

• Active absentee voter turnout: 53.34%

• Active poll voter turnout: 25.55%

Ballot review and verification procedures ensured every eligible vote was counted while maintaining compliance with Montana election law. Rejected absentee ballots totaled 57, and were rejected for the following reasons:

• 1 blank ballot

• 3 incorrect birth year

• 6 incorrect birth year and signature issues

• 21 signature mismatches

• 26 missing birth year

Importantly, through diligent voter outreach efforts, more than 40 ballot issues were resolved, allowing those voters' ballots to be counted. Additionally, 191 absentee ballots were rejected during central count because multiple voted ballots were returned in a single secrecy envelope.

Voter participation remains strong when compared to previous primary elections:

2022 Primary Election: ballots counted, 7,855; turnout, 37.26%

2024 Primary Election: ballots counted: 8,968; turnout: 42.18%

2026 Primary Election: ballots counted: 8,548; turnout: 37.97%

Elections are among the most visible and important functions of local government. The success of this election reflects the dedication of our election judges, county staff, partner departments, and the voters themselves. I am grateful for the trust placed in our office and proud of the professionalism demonstrated throughout every stage of the election process.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in ensuring that our elections remain secure, transparent, accurate and accessible.

Please check the status of your voter registration at voterportal.mt.gov to ensure we have your most current information for the upcoming Nov. 3 general election. We will be mailing absentee ballots on Oct. 9.