Gerald Bennett
American politician from Montana
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Gerald 'Jerry' Bennett (born August 15, 1956) was an American politician and businessman who was a member of the Montana House of Representatives for the 1st district from 2009 to 2017.
Gerald Bennett | |
|---|---|
| Member of the Montana House of Representatives from the 1st district | |
| In office January 5, 2009 – January 2, 2017 | |
| Preceded by | Ralph Heinert |
| Succeeded by | Steve Gunderson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 15, 1956 Fairbanks, Alaska, U.S. |
| Party | Republican |
| Spouse | Malia Bennett |
| Children | 2 |
| Other names | Gerald A. Bennett, Jerry Bennett |
Early life
Bennett was born in Fairbanks, Alaska. His grandfather and father lived in Lincoln County, Montana. In 1974, Bennett graduated from Libby High School in Libby, Montana.[1][2]
Career
Bennett has worked for companies including St. Regis Paper Co., W.R. Grace, Taylor Logging, Sunrise Rental, Valley Motor and S.J. Orr Service. As a businessman, he owned and operated a septic service and portable toilet rental business.[1]
On November 4, 2008, Bennett won the election and became a Republican member of Montana house of representatives for District 1, which includes Libby. He defeated Eileen J. Carney and Freeman W. Johnson with 59.65% of the votes.[3] On November 2, 2010, as an incumbent, he won the election and continued representing District 1 by defeating Eileen J. Carney with 71.34% of the votes.[4] On November 6, 2012, as an incumbent, he won the election unopposed.[5] On November 4, 2014, he won the election again and defeated Donald Coats with 75.68% of the votes.[6][7]
Bennett was a majority whip during the 2015–2016 session.[8]
On November 8, 2016, Bennett was elected as a member of Lincoln County Commission for the 2nd district. He defeated Rhoda Cargill.[9][2]