Candidates stack up campaign war chests

Flathead County Justice of the Peace candidate Paul Sullivan has raised the most money of any county candidate vying for a position in the June 5 primary election.

According to state candidate campaign finance reports, Sullivan reported receipts of $20,545 for the filing period that ended May 1. He has far outspent his opponent, William Managhan, whose finance report showed total receipts of $2,326.

Sullivan and Managhan are vying for the non-partisan Department 2 Justice of the Peace seat held by Mark Sullivan, who is not seeking re-election.

In the four-way race for the District 3 county commissioner seat, Republican challengers Randy Brodehl and Gerald “Jay” Scott reported the most campaign receipts, with Brodehl raising $15,945 and Scott bringing in $13,152. Incumbent Republican Commissioner Gary Krueger reported $8,610 in campaign receipts, while Republican challenger Ronalee Skees brought in $2,595.

The Flathead County sheriff race has four Republicans seeking the job held by retiring Sheriff Chuck Curry. In that race, Brian Heino raised the most campaign money, bringing in $10,480. Cal Beringer reported campaign receipts of $8,682, followed by Keith Stahlberg at $7,324 and Jordan White at $6,100.

The current campaign filing period began May 2 and continues through May 24, with a filing deadline of May 29. Individuals are allowed by law to contribute up to $180 to a candidate.