We are collecting information from all candidates running statewide to serve as a resource for the 2024 Primary Elections. Responses were limited to 200 words per question. While political attacks may have been removed, all other responses are published as submitted.
What is your full name as it will appear on the ballot?
Christi Jacobsen
How old are you?
48
Where do you currently reside?
Helena MT
What is your educational background?
Capital High School, 1993Carroll College, BA 1997 University of Montana, MPA 2000
List your current and past occupations.
I am Montana’s 22nd Secretary of State with a 24-year career, including executive leadership roles, Deputy Secretary of State, COO of Department of Justice, small business owner, and previous experience in customer service in the telecom industry.
What inspired you to run for the position of Secretary of State?
As a fourth-generation Montanan and the current Secretary of State, my love for Montana and desire to serve has motivated me to seek re-election.
What experience do you have in overseeing elections, interpreting election laws, and managing public records?
As Montana’s Chief Election Officer and Chief Deputy, I have nearly a decade of experience overseeing elections and modernizing public records from microfilm to digital formats. I have also worked to ensure Montana’s elections are conducted with integrity and accessibility.
How will you ensure equal access and opportunity for all Montanans to participate in our elections?
As Montana’s Chief Election Officer, I have addressed access barriers and implemented strategies to improve voter participation. I have worked on voter registration reforms, line management strategies, and voter outreach efforts to enhance voting access for all Montanans.
Do you support ID requirements for in-person voting and why?
As Secretary of State, I support voter ID requirements based on the will of the people and the need for election integrity. Voter ID policies have bipartisan support and are crucial for ensuring secure and fair elections.
What changes, if any, do you believe should be made to Montana’s election laws?
While I am proud of the work done to secure Montana’s elections, I believe there is always room for improvement. I advocate for meaningful voter identification requirements and streamlining administrative processes to enhance election integrity and efficiency.
What are your top three goals if elected?
My top goals as Secretary of State are to support free enterprise, ensure fair and transparent elections for the country, and lead an engaged workforce.
What priorities do you believe the state Land Board should focus on in managing state trust lands?
The state Land Board should prioritize maximizing resources to fund schools while responsibly managing natural resources and expanding public land access opportunities.
