Elena Evans, an environmental health manager from Missoula, has qualified as an independent candidate for the Public Service Commission (PSC) District 4 election. She will challenge the incumbent Jennifer Fielder, who currently serves as the vice chair of the commission. Evans, motivated by a recent 28% rate increase approved by the PSC for NorthWestern Energy’s residential electricity customers, believes that voters need more choices and that the commission's current approach lacks proper engagement and oversight.

Evans gathered more than 5,000 verified signatures, surpassing the required 3,050, to secure her spot on the ballot. Her campaign highlights the broader economic implications of rising electricity costs and criticizes Montana’s aversion to new technology, which she argues hinders the state's economic growth. In contrast, Fielder, who did not respond to requests for comments on Evans' candidacy, defends her record on the PSC, citing strategic planning, software modernization, and internal policy revamps that she claims have saved Montana utility customers millions

Both candidates have differing views on the PSC’s role and recent decisions, including the rate hike for NorthWestern Energy. While Fielder justifies the increase as a necessary action within legal constraints, Evans expresses her frustration with the current commission's performance and looks forward to engaging with constituents across the district. She aims to address their concerns and advocate for a more effective regulatory approach.