Tranel, Zinke teams spar on congressional campaign trail

Democrat Monica Tranel knocked her opponent, U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, during a stop in Kalispell earlier this month for what she described as his lack of presence on the campaign trail.  

“My strategy is to really meet with and connect with my constituents,” Tranel said. “I haven’t seen Zinke at all and I haven’t talked to anyone who’s seen him so I don’t even know if he comes to Montana.”

Tranel, an environmental lawyer from Missoula, arrived in the Flathead Valley to tour lumber facilities and talk with industry professionals. It was the latest stop on her campaign, which has seen her traverse the western House district and canvass voters on their concerns.