29-Year-Old Katie Zolnikov Represents New Generation of Leadership for Republicans

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Republicans in the Montana House of Representatives today elected Rep. Katie Zolnikov, R-Billings, as Speaker of the House, making her the first woman to serve as head of the chamber in Montana history. Speaker-Elect Zolnikov will also become the youngest female Speaker of the House in the history of the nation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).

“Today’s election demonstrates that the American Dream is alive in Montana. In Big Sky Country, you can still rise to the top by your own merits and work ethic, without having to be part of the good ol’ boys club or come from money. As Speaker, I look forward to working every day to make American Dream achievable for all Montanans,” Zolnikov said.

Representative Zolnikov’s election comes at a pivotal moment for Republicans across the country with several states losing their Republican governing trifectas following election-day losses. At just 29 years old, Montana’s new Speaker represents a generational change at a time when Republicans are looking toward the next group of leaders to help shape the party’s future. Her focus on affordability, government transparency, and accountability reflects issues that will be central to that conversation.

As Speaker, she will lead the House in setting the vision of the future of Montana through its legislative priorities and working with fellow legislators to advance policies that improve the lives of all Montanans and their families.

Zolnikov served as House Speaker Pro Tempore during the 2025-2026 Legislature. She is a small business owner and mother of two children.

Joining Representative Zolnikov’s leadership team will be Rep. Mike Vinton, R-Billings, as Speaker Pro Tempore and Rep. Tom Millett, R-Marion, as House Majority Leader. Reps. Braxton Mitchell, Steve Gist, Greg Oblander, Shannon Maness, and Tracy Sharp will serve as House Majority Whips.

Speaker-Elect Zolnikov will be holding a press conference at 12:30 in the House chamber.

Kyle Schmauch
Chief of Staff & Communications Director
Senate Republicans
Montana Legislature