State Representative District 85 in Montana State House District 85, Montana

2026 Primary Election

• Michele Binkley — Candidate for State Representative in Hamilton, MT

  Michele Binkley is a Republican candidate running for election to the Montana House of Representatives to represent District 85 in the June 2, 2026 primary. A Montanan for over three decades, mother of two, and wife to Dwayne, she previously served as the State Representative for House District 85 from January 2021 to January 2025. Prior to her legislative service, Binkley worked as an escrow officer. During her tenure, she was a member of key committees including Appropriations and Rules. Binkley describes herself as a constitutionalist and conservative, focusing her campaign on principles of freedom and prosperity. She aims to be a voice for the people of Ravalli County, pledging to fight for a stronger, more affordable community by advocating for lower property taxes, stronger schools, and protecting freedoms, rather than serving party bosses or special interests.

• Kim Dailey — Retired paralegal in MT

  Kim Dailey, a Republican candidate for Montana House District 85 in 2026, is a retired paralegal with 20 years of legal expertise and a 49-year Montana resident. She states her political run is guided by faith and a conviction to advocate for the people. Dailey champions secure elections, emphasizing voter ID and election integrity. Her platform also focuses on protecting children, parental rights, and aligning education with Montana values, aiming to safeguard freedoms by upholding constitutional principles and restoring integrity and moral values. Endorsed by the Montana Conservative Alliance, Dailey has faced criticism regarding comments on military pay and prioritizing moral discourse over legislative work.

• Laura Jackson — Candidate for State Representative in MT

  Laura Jackson is a Democratic candidate seeking election to the Montana House of Representatives for District 85 in the primary election on June 2, 2026. She has a history of engaging in the political process within Montana, having previously advanced from Democratic primaries for the same district in both 2018 and 2020. Professionally, Jackson served as Deputy Chief of Staff for State Representative Murri Briel, a Democrat from Illinois, from December 2024 to 2025. Her specific policy positions and current reasons for running are not detailed in the provided information.