Public Service Commissioner District 5 in Statewide, Montana

2026 Primary Election

• Annie Bukacek — Incumbent Public Service Commissioner in Kalispell, MT

  Dr. Annie Bukacek is an incumbent Public Service Commissioner in Montana, first elected in 2022. A licensed physician based in Kalispell, she is seeking a second term to continue protecting Montanans' essential services. She advocates for affordable access to state-regulated utilities, aiming to ensure economical and reliable power. Bukacek emphasizes keeping Montana energy independent and "looking out for the little guy," focusing on residents, businesses, and local power providers. She previously made a 2022 campaign promise to inform citizens about PSC matters. In late 2025, a complaint was filed alleging she used state resources for her private medical practice, which she declined to comment on.

• Joe Dooling — Candidate for Public Service Commissioner in Helena, MT

  Joe Dooling, a Republican, is running for Montana Public Service Commissioner for District 5 in the 2026 election. A graduate of Beaverhead County High School and Montana State University, Dooling's campaign centers on protecting Montana ratepayers. His key policy positions include standing up against unjustified utility rate hikes, advocating for fair, reliable, and affordable energy, and promoting fiscal responsibility without bureaucratic waste or corporate mismanagement. He aims to ensure Montana’s energy future prioritizes people over political agendas. He previously sought the same office in the 2022 Republican primary.

• Kevin Hamm — CEO of Auxilyum Technologies in Billings, MT

  Kevin Hamm, a Democrat, is running for Montana Public Service Commission, District 5, in 2026. Born in Denver, Colorado, he served as CEO of Treasure State Internet & Telegraph (2018-2023) and Auxilyum Technologies (since 2018). Hamm's platform targets utility "greed," aiming to lower energy bills for families over corporate profits. He advocates for a PSC that champions Montanans, criticizing the current commission's alignment with corporations and highlighting the 2026 NorthWestern Energy rate hike. Hamm also pushes for mandated infrastructure upgrades, such as for railroads, and opposes monied interests exploiting Montana's resources. He previously sought a PSC seat in 2022 and announced a U.S. congressional bid in 2023.

• David Sanders — Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Chief of Staff (Montana State Auditor's Office) in Helena, MT

  David Sanders is a Republican candidate for Montana Public Service Commission District 5 in the June 2, 2026 primary. A fourth-generation Montanan and a third-generation U.S. Army veteran, he has dedicated his career to public service. He currently serves as Commissioner of Securities and Insurance and Chief of Staff for the Montana State Auditor's Office since January 2025. Sanders and his wife, Kathie, reside in Helena. He is campaigning on a platform of responsible and reliable leadership, committed to securing abundant, affordable, and independent energy for Montana families by ensuring the PSC prioritizes their needs.