MONTANA—Native communities around Montana turned out in significant numbers for the 2024 election, driven by years of dedicated grassroots efforts from organizations like Western Native Voice. While voter turnout showed promising gains, challenges persist, and there is much work to be done to sustain and build upon this progress.
This year’s voter turnout in Montana reached 68.09%, a notable increase from 61% in 2016 and slightly higher than the 66% achieved in 2020 during an all-mail ballot election. Reservation precincts showed particularly strong participation, with absentee ballot returns exceeding 75%. These numbers reflect the commitment of Western Native Voice to engaging communities, even in the face of systemic barriers.
However, despite these achievements, significant gaps remain. While some areas saw increased participation, others faced setbacks, underscoring the need for continued efforts to address obstacles and engage more voters. Western Native Voice recognizes that meaningful progress requires ongoing dedication to both immediate electoral needs and the broader work of empowerment.
Beyond Election Day: Year-Round Impact
Beyond Election Day: Year-Round Impact
Western Native Voice operates year-round to build lasting change, focusing on education, leadership development, civic engagement, and public policy advocacy. These efforts aim to strengthen the foundation of Native political power, creating pathways for community members to actively shape decisions at the state and national levels.
Through initiatives like voter registration drives, leadership workshops, and community education, the organization fosters a deeper understanding of the democratic process. These programs not only help mobilize voters during elections but also cultivate a stronger sense of civic responsibility and leadership within Native communities.
Representation in Action
One significant outcome of the 2024 election was the election of 10 Native leaders to the Montana legislature: Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, Sen. Jacinda Morigeau, Rep. Thedis Crowe, Rep. Tyson Running Wolf, Rep. Frank Smith, Rep. Mike Fox, Rep. Jade Sooktis, Rep. Shelly Fyant, Rep. Donavon Hawk, and Rep. Sidney Fitzpatrick. This milestone represents meaningful progress, but it is also a reminder of the ongoing need for greater representation and equity in government.
The success of these legislators highlights the importance of advocacy organizations in cultivating a pipeline of Native leaders. By supporting candidates and engaging communities, Western Native Voice is helping to ensure that Native perspectives are represented in decision-making spaces.
Building for the Future
The 2024 election has provided valuable insights into the successes and challenges of mobilizing Native voters. While the increased turnout is encouraging, the uneven results across communities signal a need for continued investment in outreach, education, and barrier reduction.
Western Native Voice is committed to using these lessons to refine its strategies and strengthen its impact. By focusing on long-term goals alongside immediate electoral outcomes, the organization is working to ensure that Native voices are not only heard during elections but also hold enduring influence in shaping the future.
For Montana’s Native communities, the work continues. The progress seen in 2024 is a foundation to build upon, driven by a collective determination to create a more inclusive and equitable democratic process.