big sky democrats

Group’s Candidates Go 4 for 4 in Legislative Primary Races

(BILLINGS) – In a move that is sure to rock the political establishment in Montana, all four candidates endorsed by the Big Sky Democrats won primary races for the Montana Legislature Tuesday.

“These victories prove that Montanans are ready to elect new young leaders,” said Big Sky Democrats Political Director Tim Tatarka. “We couldn't be more excited as an organization to be able to help make such a positive impact on the Montana political scene.”

The Big Sky Democrats, with more than 400 members across Montana, launched a first-of-its kind initiative to build a new generation of Montana leaders. Endorsing four candidates for the legislature, each of whom is under the age of 30, the Big Sky Democrats contributed the maximum amount allowable to each candidate and provided them with on-the-ground grassroots help in their respective races. more

“We raised money, provided grassroots support, and did everything we could to get these candidates elected,” Tatarka said. “This is a huge win for us.”

The legislative effort is part of the Big Sky Democrats’ “New Era” campaign, which strives to “turn a new day in Montana into a new era in Montana.” The group is expected to endorse additional candidates for the general election in November.

Big Sky Democrats Who Won Primaries

Kendall Van Dyk for House District 49 (Billings): Van Dyk, 26, is a founding member of the Big Sky Democrats and formerly the group’s Regional Director in Billings.

Rep. Dan Villa for House District 86 (Anaconda): Villa, 23, won election to the State House in 2004. As a legislator, Villa provided steady leadership on education, healthcare, and economic development issues.

Michelle Reinhart for House District 97 (Missoula): Reinhart, 26, worked for the Northern Plains Resource Council for the past three legislative session and helped pass renewable energy policy and meat labeling for family agriculture. If elected, Reinhart would be the youngest woman serving in the Montana legislature.

Nick Lawyer for House District 13 (Sanders County/ Trout Creek): Lawyer, 24, was a firefighter and a paramedic before returning home to help run Lawyer Nursery. Lawyer is the Democrats’ best hope of retaining Paul Clark’s term-limited seat.