Montana State House District 17

Current seat holder: Zachary Wirth (R).

Chris Bechtold

Chris Bechtold (Democratic) is a candidate for the Montana House of Representatives in District 17 (Lewis and Clark, Teton counties) in the November 3, 2026 general election. Chris Bechtold earned a high school diploma from Alton High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of Montana in 1993. His career experience includes working as a rancher.

“If we don’t start looking to future and preparing for it, we will lose our most vital resource. Our young people. We have to start providing a future for our youth so they can stay here in Montana and thrive.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)
“Our resources are what make Montana special. But they are finite. Responsible stewardship of water and land are what will keep Montana unique and provide the future our children so desperately need.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)

Justin Cleveland

Justin Cleveland (Republican) is a candidate for the Montana House of Representatives in District 17 (Lewis and Clark, Teton counties) in the November 3, 2026 general election. Justin Cleveland qualified with the Montana Secretary of State to appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for House District 17.