Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Montana Democratic Party Executive Director Steps Down

Monica Lindeen.
Courtesy Monica Lindeen
Monica Lindeen.

The Montana Democratic Party will soon start searching for a new executive director. Monica Lindeen will step down from her post as executive director of the Montana Democratic Party by year’s end.

You know, I think it’s time that somebody else step into a position like this," Lindeen says.

It’s been just over ten months since Lindeen stepped in to replace her predecessor, Nancy Keenan.

Before taking on leadership of the state party, Lindeen served eight years as the State Commissioner of Securities and Insurance. She also served eight terms in the state legislature. In 2016 she lost the race for Secretary of State to Republican Corey Stapleton.

Monica Lindeen.
Credit Courtesy Monica Lindeen
Monica Lindeen.

Lindeen chalks up her decision to move on to a simple "life transition."

"You know, I’ve been doing Democratic politics, either as a elected official or a party official, for almost 24 years now. You never know how long you’re going to stay for sure. I had probably planned to stay through the entire [2020] election cycle, but other opportunities come along sometimes in life, and you know when it’s time to do it."

Those other opportunities?

"I’m not at liberty to say at this time."

Lindeen hints, however, that they may involve issues she says are important to her, such as health care access and helping Montana‘s small businesses.

Does that mean another stab at elected office?

"No. I think I’m done running for office. My family has been so generous in supporting me in all these years. I’ve given my service to Montana and I've been proud and honored to do so, but I think it’s time for other people to run for office and do good things."

Lindeen says party officials will likely select her replacement within two to three months.

Copyright 2020 Montana Public Radio. To see more, visit Montana Public Radio.

Edward O'Brien is Montana Public Radio's Associate News Director.