Jenkins backed by Gianforte, Cuffe for new House seat

Governor Greg Gianforte and Senator Mike Cuffe endorse retired Libby businessman Tom Jenkins for state representative. 

Jenkins is a candidate for newly created Montana House District 2, which stretches from Libby to Marion and Ashley Lake in Flathead County. Some 8,000 voters reside in Lincoln County and about 2,000 in Flathead County.  

Voters in Troy, Eureka and most of rural Lincoln County are in House District 1 where Rep. Neil Duram resides.

In his endorsement statement, Gov. Gianforte said he looks forward to “working alongside Tom Jenkins to cut taxes so Montanans can keep more of what they earn, reform and rein in our property tax system, support law enforcement, make families stronger, support apprenticeships and trades education, fund our schools, and improve education for our kids and grandchildren.”

Jenkins, who has lived most of his life in Libby, graduated from Libby High School, as did his six red-haired daughters. Tom operated the GMC-Buick dealership on California Avenue for years and later cut meat at Rosauers. His wife Cathy, a registered nurse, had an active career at local doctors offices, Libby Care Center, CARD Clinic and St. Johns Hospital.  

Both have been active in local civic and church activities. 

“I am so honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of Governor Gianforte and Senator Cuffe,” Jenkins stated. “The key subjects listed by Gianforte fall in line with my interests for Libby and the area into Flathead. Having served as an election judge who hand counted ballots, I also hold a strong interest in election integrity.”

In his statement of endorsement, Cuffe stated:

“Tom Jenkins and I teamed up as ambulance attendants years ago, and he helped me to campaign and organize meet and greets for many visiting candidates. I look forward to teaming up with my old friend in Helena. We share many conservative values.”