The Associated Press has called the race for Montana Secretary of State in favor of incumbent Republican Christi Jacobsen. As of 8:01 a.m. Wednesday, Jacobsen leads with 62% of the vote, while Democratic challenger Jesse Mullen has secured 35%, and Libertarian candidate John Lamb trails with 3%.
Jacobsen, who was first sworn into office on January 4, 2021, has successfully secured a second term. Prior to becoming Secretary of State, Jacobsen served in several roles in state government, including as an administrator in the State Auditor’s office and the State Department of Justice. She also worked as chief of staff for former Secretary of State Corey Stapleton.
Mullen, the Democratic challenger, is a business owner and entrepreneur based in Deer Lodge. He is the founder of Mullen Newspaper Company, which publishes 21 newspapers across six states, including nine in Montana. Mullen also owns Browsing Bison Books in Deer Lodge.
Jacobsen’s victory comes as part of a broader trend of Republican success in Montana, where the GOP holds all statewide offices. With this win, Jacobsen will continue her work overseeing Montana’s elections and business services.