Flathead County District Court Judge Dan Wilson, who narrowly lost his 2024 bid for a seat on the Montana Supreme Court, announced Wednesday that he will run again—this time for a different seat on the state’s highest court in the 2026 election.
Wilson, who was edged out by Katherine Bidegaray in a closely contested race, becomes the first candidate to officially enter the 2026 Montana Supreme Court race. Bidegaray benefited millions in outside spending by trial lawyers and other liberal special interest groups. His early announcement signals the beginning of what could become a competitive and closely watched judicial contest.
“I will not be beholden to any special interest group’s agenda and recognize that the court’s role is to interpret the law as written—not create it,” Wilson said in a statement, underscoring his commitment to judicial impartiality. Though he identifies as a conservative, he emphasized that his decisions would be grounded in law, not ideology.
First elected to the Flathead County District Court in 2016, Wilson brings a wide-ranging legal résumé to the race. He has served as a prosecutor in Great Falls, worked as a criminal defense attorney, and spent time in private practice.
With no other candidates yet declaring for the 2026 race, Wilson’s entry sets the stage early for what is expected to be a significant judicial election in Montana. The Supreme Court holds considerable influence over the interpretation of state laws and constitutional issues, making the upcoming race one to watch.