Mary Ann Dunwell
Mary Ann Dunwell (Democratic) is the incumbent member of the Montana State Senate representing District 42 (Lewis and Clark County), running for re-election in the November 3, 2026 general election. Official legislative biography notes: Born 1954 in Wilmington, Delaware; moved to Montana in 2004; B.A. in speech/ communication with emphasis on journalism and Japanese language; certifications in public health communications, crisis risk communication, leadership; retired from state government public information; former careers in broadcast journalism and nonprofit communication; former union officer; MFPE retired member; served in House 2015-22; served in Senate since 2023; one son and daughter-in-law.
Campaign site
“I’m a pro-choice candidate with experienced service leadership for public benefit, not my personal gain. I’ve had the pleasure of helping many of you, your friends, and families, and believe to my core that when everyone does better, all Montanans benefit.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey) “I have a strong background in revenue policy and continue to promote and vote for a fairer tax system. We must stop giving unfair tax breaks to the wealthy and big corporations at the expense of hard-working Montanans and small businesses.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey) “My job is to serve you, whether you vote for me or not. When people ask me if I’m a Democrat or Republican, I reply that I’m a fellow Montanan with integrity, courage, and compassion, and the Democratic candidate for SD 42. Thank you for voting. I humbly ask for your vote.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)Stephen LaPraim
Stephen LaPraim (Republican) is a candidate for the Montana State Senate in District 42 (Lewis and Clark County) in the November 3, 2026 general election. Steve LaPraim is a Christian, conservative Republican, devoted husband to his wife of 20 years, Valerie, and proud father of five. A successful business owner and founder of Liberty Networks, Steve understands the importance of hard work, family values, and fiscal responsibility.
· Stephen LaPraim campaign website
Campaign site
“Montanans are feeling the squeeze. Property taxes, housing market, and lack of industry . . . people are hungry for the good old days: whole families, moms, dads, well-rounded lives—in short, the American Dream. We want it back, and we want it back fast.”
(Stephen LaPraim campaign website) “I was born in Eugene Oregon. My mother met my stepfather when I was 7 years old. My stepfather is from Montana, and he got us home to Montana when I was 17. I chased work, all over, but the Treasure State will always be my home.”
(Stephen LaPraim campaign website)