2026 Montana Supreme Court Race Heats Up: Who’s In, Who’s Out, and Why It Matters

Montana's political landscape is already buzzing with early announcements for the 2026 state Supreme Court race—a full two years before voters hit the polls. This unprecedented early maneuvering signals high stakes for the future of Montana’s judiciary, with potential showdowns that could reshape legal interpretations on hot-button issues like property rights, environmental law, and constitutional protections. Here’s what we know so far.

Who Has Thrown Their Hat in the Ring?

• Justice Ingrid Gustafson – The incumbent is widely expected to seek reelection, though she hasn’t formally announced. Her rulings on privacy rights and campaign finance have made her a progressive favorite.
• Judge James "Jim" Brown – A conservative district judge rumored to be considering a run, Brown has been vocal about "judicial restraint" and could draw heavy backing from right-leaning groups.
• Attorney General Austin Knudsen – While not confirmed, insiders speculate Knudsen may pivot from the executive branch to the bench, setting up a blockbuster ideological clash.

Why This Race Is Critical

With Montana’s Supreme Court often serving as the final word on contentious state laws, the 2026 election could determine rulings on:

1. Land Use & Water Rights – Ongoing battles between developers and conservationists hang in the balance.
2. Abortion Access – Post-Roe challenges to Montana’s constitutional privacy protections loom large.
3. Election Laws – Recent disputes over voter ID and mail-in ballots may resurface.

What’s Next?

Campaign finance reports due later this year will reveal early financial backers, offering clues about which candidates have institutional support. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are already drafting scorecards to influence voter perceptions.

What Do You Think?

• Should judges with clear ideological leanings recuse themselves from politically charged cases?
• Is it ethical for sitting attorneys general to run for judicial seats they may later rule on?
• Would term limits for state Supreme Court justices improve or destabilize Montana’s legal system?