In the recent elections in Gallatin County, Montana, Republicans had a decisive victory across the state, winning all federal and state races. However, Gallatin County stood out as an island of blue in this sea of red, supporting Democrats in most federal and statewide elections. Donald Trump won the presidential race in Montana by 20 points, and Greg Gianforte won the governor’s race by 21 points.
In closely watched races, Tim Sheehy defeated incumbent Jon Tester in the Senate race, and Ryan Zinke won over challenger Monica Tranel in the House District 1 race. Additionally, ballot initiative CI-128, which codifies abortion rights in the Montana Constitution, was passed by voters. Democrats also managed to break the Republican super-majority in the Statehouse in Helena, gaining seats in both the Senate and House.
Several other statewide races saw Republicans winning by double-digit margins, including Austin Knudsen for Attorney General, Christi Jacobsen for Secretary of State, and Susie Hedalen for Superintendent of Public Instruction. In non-partisan judicial races, Cory Swanson won the position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, while Katherine Bidegaray won the Associate Justice position.
Overall, the elections in Gallatin County and Montana saw a record number of voters casting their ballots, with several ballot measures also being decided on, including an increase in the motor vehicle tax and a ban on single-use plastics in Bozeman businesses. The results of the elections reflect a diverse political landscape in the state, with both parties making gains in different races.
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