County voters support Short for sheriff; Crismore for commissioner
They’ve been elected, now voters will find if the winning candidates in state level races can effectively legislate in Helena for the betterment of Lincoln County’s citizens. While there was considerable drama regarding the Nov. 2, 2026, general election at the federal level, Lincoln County voters cast their ballots in local races that were either uncontested or had lopsided outcomes. For the District 1 state Senator seat, Republican Steve Gunderson collected 75% of the votes to beat Democrat Jonathan Russell Jameson. The result was similar for the District 1 state Representative seat as Republican Michelle Bianco got 76% of the vote to top Democrat Dakota V. Adams. Republican incumbent Tom Millett got 74% of the votes to defeat Democrat Jane Maahs in keeping the District 2 state Rep. seat. Also at the state level, Lincoln County voters wanted Dan Wilson for a spot on the state Supreme Court, but nevertheless, Amy Eddy easily won the race. In local races, Sheriff Darren Short won his third term in resounding fashion while getting 7,915 votes or 84% of the 9,471 ballots cast. Challenger Ian Smith, who ran as a Libertarian, claimed 1,556 votes, good for 16% Those running unopposed and winning were
