Montana's 2nd Congressional Seat
 | Author:
Representative Julie Dooling
MT State Representative |
Every 10 years, the United States performs a census across the nation. Thanks to Montana’s growth in population, the 2020 Census data results confirmed, and Montana received a 2nd Congressional seat. Every 10 years the State of Montana redraws the political boundaries of legislative districts using the Census data and certain criteria (https://mtredistricting.gov ):
These legislative districts must be as equal in population as possible.
The protection of minority voting rights is guaranteed.
Each district shall consist of a compact territory
Each district shall be contiguous.
The Montana Constitution requires an independent five-member commission – Montana Districting and Apportionment Commission (MDAC) - to draw districts for 150 legislators and submit maps for review and public comment. The Commissioners have drawn maps, are holding meetings and taking comments through the end of 2022. We are currently in Phase 4 (out of 5) of the process.
I have reviewed the 4 maps that have been submitted by the Commission. I prefer Map #1 as it keeps Broadwater County whole. The changes to the current House District 70 are mainly in the Lewis & Clark County portion of the District. Map #1 also keeps the community intact, which is one of the 5 goals as stated in the criteria adopted by the MDAC. Maps 2, 3, and 4 carve out portions of Broadwater County and combine it with Meagher or Gallatin County.
If you would like to learn more about the process, review the MDAC maps, the public submitted maps, submit a comment, or sign-up for Email updates, all of the information can be found on the MDAC website: https://mtredistricting.gov/
Rep. Julie Dooling
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