House District 9 spans the northwestern shore of Flathead Lake, including Somers and Lakeside, as well as communities near Foys Lake, Lone Pine State Park, Blacktail Mountain and Lake Rogers.

STEVEN KELLY

Political affiliation: Republican 

Age: 68 

Town of residence: Kalispell 

Occupation: Retired 

Background: Retired law enforcement officer of 30 years; member of Elks Lodge, the Flathead County Republican Central Committee and Flathead Valley Clay Target Club 

Do you support Gov. Greg Gianforte’s initiative to implement a 4.7% flat state income tax? Why or why not? 

Yes, we should treat all citizens equally. 

The 2025 Montana Legislature implemented a number of property tax reforms. Do you support these efforts? What other steps should the 2027 Legislature take to address property taxes? 

No, we are treating citizens differently without a valid reason to do so. This issue is the number one issue my constituents call me about.  

How will you balance your legislative priorities with local jurisdictional independence and control? 

I listen to local leaders and try to balance the needs of the state with the needs of the cities and county. I recognize that there are regional differences on the needs of citizens, and I prioritize the needs of the Flathead ahead of the other areas of the state. 

KATE MCLAUGHLIN 

Political affiliation: Democrat 

Age: 56 

Town of residence: Kalispell 

Occupation: NA 

Background: President elect of Soroptimist International of Whitefish; previously worked with DREAM Adaptive, Abbie Shelter, the Glacier Institute, in healthcare with the elderly and physically disabled and as a restaurant owner 

Do you support Gov. Greg Gianforte’s initiative to implement a 4.7% flat state income tax? Why or why not? 

No, income tax is the biggest revenue for our state. By reducing the income tax, we reduce our revenue, and I believe we will see either an increase in property taxes or the introduction of a sales tax to make up the difference. 

The 2025 Montana Legislature implemented a number of property tax reforms. Do you support these efforts? What other steps should the 2027 Legislature take to address property taxes? 

Property taxes change every session. The current tax has reduced taxes on primary residences. I think we should look at changing the way property taxes are calculated. Currently it is calculated by market value, which means that, even if you have paid off your home, you aren’t able to budget for a consistent property tax as it is always changing. I think we should be taxed on the purchase price of our homes, not an inflated unrealized gain. 

How will you balance your legislative priorities with local jurisdictional independence and control?

Legislative priorities for the people of House District 9 are what will improve their lives or businesses on a state level. Local independence and control are important but may need some state guidance. In Flathead County, we have buildings going up and rent not going down. Legislation at a state level could include that developers include a certain number of affordable housing units in new residential units, and if they don’t, they pay the city or town a fee.