LinkedIn

Linda was born and raised in Polson. She earned her bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry from Montana State University - Billings, her Master's of Education degree in administration from Point Loma Nazarene University, and her Doctor of Education degree in teaching studies from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). 

Linda was previously the director of assessment for the Mountain View School District.

Ballotpedia: Linda Reksten

Linda E. Reksten is currently a state representative serving House District 12. She was elected in 2021, and is currently the vice chair for the House Education Committee. She is also the current superintendent for Polson Public Schools, and was a superintendent for the Butte School District.

Economy

As state representative, sponsored House Bill 128, which would create a renewable energy trust fund.

- As state representative, sponsored House Bill 128, which would create a renewable energy trust fund.

Energy & the Environment

Healthcare

Opposes gun control and supports the Second Amendment.

- Opposes gun control and supports the Second Amendment.

Public Safety

As state representative, passed various bills ensuring election security.

- As state representative, passed various bills ensuring election security.

Voting & Elections

As state representative, acts as vice chair of the House Education Committee and has 34 years of experience in public education.

- As state representative, acts as vice chair of the House Education Committee and has 34 years of experience in public education.

Education

Twitter

Linda E. Reksten

Shirley graduated from the University of Montana and is married with two children.

Shirley is the Mental Health Coordinator for Early Childhood Services with the Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes. She was previously a special education teacher for 30 years.

Ballotpedia: Shirley Azzopardi

Shirley Azzopardi ran for State Representative in State House District 93 in 2022.

The candidate's website states, "Shirley will work to end the Republican supermajority’s irresponsible use of Montana tax dollars."

- The candidate's website states, "Shirley will work to end the Republican supermajority’s irresponsible use of Montana tax dollars."

As of June 8, 2025, Shirley Azzopardi’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Believes healthcare is a "fundamental right" and that the government should not interfere with private medical decisions.

- Believes healthcare is a "fundamental right" and that the government should not interfere with private medical decisions.
- Supports abortion.
- Supports transgender healthcare.

Azzopardi announces bid for HD 13

The candidate's website states, "Shirley believes in Montana’s public schools and will advocate for our students, families, and teachers."

- The candidate's website states, "Shirley believes in Montana’s public schools and will advocate for our students, families, and teachers."

Facebook

Shirley Azzopardi

- Your State Representative participates in the legislative process at the state level. They are one of 100 members of the Montana House of Representatives. The Montana House of Representatives is the lower house of the Montana State Legislature (the state's lawmaking body).
- Your State Representative drafts laws, approves budgets, has oversight of the state executive branch, and debates and votes on proposed laws.
- In addition to drafting and voting on bills, your State Representative can serve on committees. This is important because many bills can be stalled in committee, preventing them making it to a vote.
- Your State Representative is responsible for representing your interests. They also are responsible for helping you navigate the state's services and bringing back resources to your district.
- State Representatives are elected to a 2-year term. Individuals can serve no more than 8 years in a 16-year period.

Montana State Representative, District 13

Election results

Candidates (2)