Flathead Dems seek replacement for Col. Falls legislative seat

Flathead County Democrats are seeking a replacement for a local legislative seat following the resignation of Zac Perry.

Perry’s replacement will represent House District 3 — which covers Columbia Falls, the North Fork area and the U.S. 2 corridor — until Dec. 3, 2020. Montana has no scheduled legislative session before then, but the selected representative can run for reelection in 2020.

Lynn Stanley, chair of the Flathead County Democratic Central Committee, said in a press release, “I hope to hear from a robust number of qualified Democrats by Oct. 1, especially from the Columbia Falls area. This is an opportunity to participate in democracy in action.”

Those interested in the position have until Oct. 1 at midnight to email the Flathead Democrats their letter of interest. After filling out a questionnaire, candidates will participate in a forum at the Oct. 15 Democratic Central Committee meeting.

Democratic precinct chairs, officers and elected Democratic officials will vote on three candidates to send to Flathead County commissioners. Starting on Oct. 21, the commissioners will have 15 days to decide on a candidate.

Perry, who was reelected last year by a 34-vote margin, resigned on Sept. 1 after serving in the Montana Legislature for three sessions over a five-year period. He is leaving to return to college and earn his master’s degree in education.

Those with questions or wanting to declare their candidacy can email flatheaddemocrats@gmail.com.

Reporter Colin Gaiser can be reached at 758-4439 or cgaiser@dailyinterlake.com