2021 Legislature convenes in a crowded Capitol

HELENA — Members of the House and Senate kicked off the 2021 Legislature in person at the state Capitol on Monday, formally convening and electing leadership for what may be a turbulent 90-day session during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lawmakers took their oaths of office on the House and Senate floors, observed by crowded galleries of family members, friends and members of the public. Republicans in the Senate and House partially complied with mask guidelines that have been stressed by public health officials. Democrats and legislative staffers appeared almost universally to wear face coverings, but did not regularly maintain physical distance during proceedings.

The majority-Republican Senate elected Sen. Mark Blasdel of Kalispell to serve as Senate president. Representative Wylie Galt, R-Martinsdale, was unanimously picked as Speaker of the House, regardless of rumblings about a challenge for that position by the party caucus’ more conservative faction. Both leaders pledged to bring lawmakers together to pass critical legislation during a chaotic time for the state.