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Reactions and Results in Helena

By KFBB News Team

Story Created: Nov 3, 2010 at 9:08 PM MDT

Story Updated: Nov 3, 2010 at 10:19 PM MDT

Although this was a so-called “off year,” this year’s General Election saw a strong voter turnout.

“We know in Montana that elections are important and we’re spread out more than most states and we know when we go to the polls and cast our ballots it really is our voice and it’s how we voice our opinions in Montana, it’s important to Montanans,” says Montana Secretary of State Linda McCulloch. McCulloch visited five cities yesterday and adds that the polls were steady and organized.

And for those running for state and local races it’s the end of months of campaigning.

“What a relief,” exclaims Sheriff Leo Dutton.

This year was Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton’s first time running for public office.

“It’s tense, no one should take anything for granted,” says Dutton. After serving 25 years with the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Dutton came out on top with over 65% of the vote, over Republican challenger Scott Swingley.

Dutton adds “I’m very happy, I’m very excited and I look forward to the goals that we’ve started and showing the Lewis and Clark County citizens that they’re my boss.”

Dutton says one of his goals is getting a new detention center and making sure his entire team is involved in the community, a theme newly appointed Supreme Court Justice Beth Baker wants to follow as well.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for students and others in the community to observe the processes of a Supreme Court Case,” says Baker.

Baker didn’t find out until well past midnight that she edged out Nels Swandal with over 62% of the vote and she looks back on her campaign as a positive experience.

Baker adds “you have to pour your heart and soul into it and you can’t be afraid to fail because ultimately your life is enriched in the experience and my life has been enriched by this experience and you may also inspire someone else along the way to have the courage to pursue their passion.”

And Montana voters expressed their passion in their government with a ballot the Secretary of State points out we haven’t seen in quite some time.
“This is the first time since 1998 that there’s been no president on the ballot, no U.S. Senators, no statewide elected officials and so this configuration of candidates hasn’t occurred for the last 12 years,” says McCulloch.

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