To this day, I remember driving from my parents’ house to the local fire station.
It was Nov. 3, 1992, and just turning 18, I was heading to vote for the first time. My excitement was heightened by the three-way presidential race between George H.W. Bush, the Republican incumbent; Bill Clinton, the upstart Democratic governor from Arkansas; and Ross Perot, the independent Texas business magnate. I remember casting my vote for president that day.
Voting for the President of the United States was a significant moment in my young life, and I was eager to stay up late, if needed, to follow the results. Four years earlier, I had watched as Bush defeated Democratic opponent Michael Dukakis, and now, I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the real-time results on the screen.
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Clinton emerged as the winner, carrying 32 states and the District of Columbia, securing 370 electoral votes to replace Bush in the Oval Office. Even in Oregon, I didn’t have to stay up too long to know who the next president would be.
What I didn’t realize then, but do now, is the importance of my vote in local and statewide elections. The decisions of elected officials like my state representative, senator, governor, attorney general, and state superintendent of education will have a profound impact on my life and the lives of others.
In the upcoming primary, Montanans who haven’t voted by mail will head to polling places to participate in a pivotal election that will ultimately shape the November general election, drawing national attention due to the closely contested U.S. Senate race between Democratic incumbent Jon Tester and likely challenger Tim Sheehy.
For more insights on the political landscape, I recommend reading our coverage of the behind-the-scenes maneuvers that led to Sheehy’s prominence in the race.
The most intriguing race in the upcoming primary might be the Eastern House contest, with 12 candidates vying to succeed U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale, whose campaign fluctuations were a highlight earlier in the year.
With various candidates across party lines, the primary offers a diverse field for voters to consider. Our team has provided comprehensive profiles, offering a glimpse into the spirit of each campaign.
Additionally, our Capitol Bureau chief delves into the Republican gubernatorial primary between Gov. Greg Gianforte and challenger Tanner Smith, exploring what it means to be a conservative in today’s political climate.
The upcoming Montana Supreme Court race is also of interest, as partisanship seeps into the otherwise nonpartisan elections. National organizations and advocacy groups are intensifying their efforts, setting the stage for a competitive judicial race.
Our Supreme Court reporter has provided in-depth analysis of the field, shedding light on the candidates and their positions.
Lastly, the OPI superintendent race is heating up, with a Republican primary shaping up to culminate in a general showdown between key contenders. Stay informed with our coverage of this pivotal race.
As we approach Election Day, our team is committed to delivering comprehensive coverage, analysis, and results. Stay tuned to our platforms for the latest updates and insights.
I’ve finalized my plans to vote on June 4th. Have you? The future is in our hands.
Steve Kiggins is a local news director for Lee Enterprises, and executive editor of The Missoulian and for Lee Montana. Email him at steve.kiggins@lee.net. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @scoopskiggy.
