The court struck down Austin Knudsen’s rewrite on a ballot initiative mandating nonpartisan judicial elections, but sided with him on a second ballot issue

An outpouring of community support helped local food banks meet demand during the government shutdown. But the recent lapse in SNAP benefits is just the latest in a string of adverse events that have increased the need for their services.

The (for now) two-way race will select a challenger likely to face Republican incumbent Rep. Ryan Zinke, who has served as the western district’s congressman since 2023

Dave Means led the district through the COVID pandemic and to a successful high school expansion bond during his time in the role as head administrator. The board announced a search committee has been selected and tasked with selecting a firm to facilitate the hunt for someone to fill his shoes.

This year marks the second time Barron has received the award, and she’ll represent Montana on the national level as she competes for the National Superintendent of the Year

His family, friends and admirers say his legacy in the Flathead - and as Montana’s longest-serving congressman - lies with his advocacy for conservation, and on behalf of Native Americans

Montana’s Sen. Steve Daines and Rep. Ryan Zinke spoke with the Beacon about their thoughts on the ongoing shutdown. Both Republicans, the lawmakers echoed their party’s sentiments blaming the shutdown on Democrats, who in turn fault the GOP’s refusal to negotiate on Affordable Care Act subsidies.

The ballot issue aims to overturn the 2010 Citizens United decision by redefining the powers of corporations in the state’s constitution

The district will remain focused on addressing the high school’s needs, said Superintendent Cory Dziowgo

Both the Polson Pirates and Columbia Falls Wildcats had 4-0 shutouts to clinch their titles Saturday. They played against regional rivals, the Whitefish Bulldogs and Bigfork Valkyries, respectively, for a full Flathead showing in the state final games.

Students received a demonstration from senior cryogenics engineer David Petrick, who launched several bottle rockets and garbage cans and exploded pumpkins. Petrick said he hopes to get children interested in science through the hands-on experience.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it can’t legally dole out SNAP funds in November during the government shutdown, despite previous assurances federal funding would continue. More than 77,000 Montanans would be affected by the delay, which is unprecedented in the food-assistance program's history.

The outcry stems from a series of audio recordings a student posted on his personal X account, which have gained attention in conservative circles. The Montana Federation of Public Employees called the rhetoric and response an example of “misinformation.”

The requirement comes as the result of a new law passed in the 2025 legislative session, and around the state, hundreds of voters’ ballots are being rejected thanks to a lack of birth date or providing inaccurate information

The program served as a key factor in the district’s successful levy campaign last spring and Gov. Greg Gianforte recently lauded the program during a roundtable conversation with the U.S. Education Secretary