HELENA – At least 22 people are hoping to be the next appointee for political practices commissioner.
After the Republican Legislature decided not to confirm Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s pick for the post, lawmakers will meet Friday to send up to five new nominees to the governor.
Lee Newspapers of Montana reports that most of the applicants for the six-year term for ethics chief also applied last fall when Jennifer Hensley was appointed to the post.
Hensley, who has served since January, says she will remain in the office until a replacement is named.
Once Schweitzer receives the new names he can pick from the applicants provided or choose any other person — except for Hensley.
The political practices commissioner is responsible for investigating alleged violations of political and ethics laws.