Daily Montanan

NorthWestern Energy bills to increase again
The increase comes in the midst of inflation, concerns data centers will jack up rates even more, and a pause by the PSC on a cost-sharing tool that used to mean savings at times for customers.

Bankhead takes swings at Bodnar, calls for him to resign race
Alani Bankhead, running for the U.S. Senate, launched an attack Monday on the University of Montana campus against independent candidate Seth Bodnar.

American Prairie, conservation groups appeal bison grazing decision
Groups file to appeal federal government’s decision to terminate bison grazing leases on Bureau of Land Management parcels in Montana.

Work still taking place, lawsuit unfolding on residential property taxes
Legislators will take on additional, different ‘relief’ in 2027

Gianfortes accelerate plan to donate historic Hauser Mansion to state
In 2024, the Gianfortes announced their “private purchase” of the historic residence in Helena for $4 million with plans to donate the property to the state at the end of the governor’s term.

Two NIH scientists in Montana charged with ‘smuggling’ virus
Two researchers at the Rocky Mountain Laboratories accused of conspiracy involving ‘Mpox’ virus, and lying to federal officials.

Montana Senate race takes shape
Nearly 111,000 Montanans voted in the Democratic primary election, while more than 168,000 voted in the Republican primary, including 128,064 for Alme.

State, feds give 2026 wildfire season outlook
While recent rains are part of a reason for some optimism surrounding this year’s wildfire outlook, it could “turn on a dime” officials warned during a seasonal briefing.

Katie Lane confirmed as newest Montana federal judge
Katie Lane, 34, who served a brief stint in the Montana Attorney General’s office and most recently worked as a lawyer for the Republican National Committee, earned a lifetime appointment as a federal district judge in Montana.

Forstag pulls ahead in four-way Democratic primary matchup
A four-way contested primary among Democrats for Montana’s western U.S. House seat is yet to be called, but Missoula smokejumper Sam Forstag had pulled ahead of former gubernatorial candidate Ryan Busse.
