Stacy Zinn, a former Montana U.S. House candidate, has been appointed to replace Bill Mercer in the Montana Legislature. The Yellowstone County Commission unanimously selected Zinn to serve the remainder of Mercer’s term in House District 52. Mercer had resigned in October after his U.S. Senate confirmation for a Montana U.S. District Court judgeship.
A retired DEA agent, Zinn previously formed a campaign committee for the north Billings district, covering areas like Palisades and Ironwood. She expressed her ongoing desire to contribute to the community when the opportunity arose, saying, “When this opportunity came up, I still wanted to serve. I still wanted to be productive.”
In the 2024 Republican U.S. House primary for Montana’s eastern district, Zinn finished second in Yellowstone County, behind U.S. Rep. Troy Downing. Despite her loss, it marked her political debut, highlighting her advocacy on drug enforcement and immigration issues.
During her bid for Mercer’s seat, Zinn emphasized her legal enforcement background, stating it would benefit legislative duties. Candidates Rhonda Knudsen and Jenna McKinney were also in the running. Knudsen, a former state House Speaker Pro Temp, cited encouragement from Billings constituents, while McKinney brought experience as a field representative for U.S. Sen. Steve Daines.
Zinn’s selection was backed by local Republican women and followed her election as vice chair of the Montana GOP in June, reinforcing her standing within the party.
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