mayor

Hess remained gracious in defeat and has few regrets over the job he did in filling the shoes of former Mayor John Engen, who held the job for nearly two decades and remains the city's longest sitting mayor.

Missoula voters narrowed the field of five mayoral candidates to two on Tuesday night, setting the stage for a November showdown between a political newcomer and a tenured member of City Council.

Incumbent City Council member Mike Nugent and nonprofit director Andrea Davis were leading the field after the first batch of returns at 8:30 p.m.

Nan Dunne Byington writes, "My feminism doesn’t require a gender test, and I am proud of the progressive policy-making Hess is party to even in the face of our state-wide culture wars."

Cindy Weese writes, "She has the experience, skills and personal fortitude to address Missoula’s most significant challenges and capitalize on its emerging opportunities."

Dave Harmon writes, "None of his opponents compare with Jordan's experience and dedication to fighting climate change."

Jennifer Savage writes, "Support for Mike is far-reaching, crosses party lines and gives me so much hope because his is a fresh perspective that Missoula needs."

Krystal Steinmetz, "A lifelong Missoulian, Mike has proven time and time again that he is willing to roll up his sleeves and work hard for his beloved hometown, whether that’s volunteering for United Way, helping coach a youth sports team, or serving on the Missoula City Council."

Tyler Gernant writes, "Missoula needs someone who is actually committed to creating homes Missoulians can afford, not just talking about them. We need someone who will hold folks accountable instead of making excuses. That someone is Mike Nugent."

Over the past decade, the City of Missoula has taken the lead in Montana with local plans to address the climate crisis, including clean electricity, zero waste and eliminating tailpipe emissions from the city's fleet of vehicles.