Democrat joins commissioner election contest

Whitefish resident Steven Qunell, a Democrat, filed to run for Flathead County commissioner on Wednesday.

Qunell is the lone Democrat to file so far for commissioner.

The Republican side of the ballot features incumbent Commissioner Gary Hall and former Sheriff Jim Dupont in the race for the District 1 seat.

The deadline to file for the June 3 primary is today at 5 p.m.

The county election office said it has received phone inquiries about the commissioner position, but no one else has filed.

Qunell, who formerly worked for Child and Family Services, is the vice chairman for the Whitefish City-County Planning Board.

"Steve Qunell is an extremely sharp guy who is very rigorous with due diligence," said Martin McGrew, former Planning Board chairman. "He represents a strong demographic in our community. I wish everybody was as passionate as he is."

Qunell was not available for comment.

The only other county position up for election this year is clerk of District Court. Incumbent Peg Allison has filed for re-election. She is the only candidate to file so far.

Today also is the deadline for candidates to file for Montana Legislature.