Jade Sooktis

Jade Sooktis is a prominent American politician currently serving as a member of the Montana House of Representatives, representing District 41. A member of the Democratic Party, Sooktis's political career began with her election in 2024, where she succeeded incumbent Gayle Lammers, who transitioned to a position in the Montana State Senate. Sooktis's election victory was marked by a significant margin against her Republican opponent, Da Wallowing Bull. In her role as a legislator, she has been actively involved in various committees, including State Administration and Human Services, and is recognized as a member of the American Indian Caucus. Her legislative actions and public statements reflect her commitment to addressing issues pertinent to Indigenous communities and broader social concerns.

Early life and career

Information regarding Jade Sooktis's early life and career prior to her entry into politics is limited. However, her background and experiences may have played a crucial role in shaping her political views and motivations. As a member of the American Indian community, Sooktis's identity likely informs her perspectives on various legislative matters, particularly those affecting Indigenous peoples and their rights.

Before entering the political arena, Sooktis may have engaged in community service, advocacy, or other professional endeavors that prepared her for a role in public office. Such experiences often provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by constituents and the importance of representation in government. While specific details about her early career are not available, it is common for individuals in public service to have backgrounds in areas such as education, social work, or community organizing, which can enhance their understanding of the needs of their districts.

In 2024, Sooktis made her first foray into electoral politics, running for the Montana House of Representatives. Her campaign was characterized by a focus on issues relevant to her constituents in District 41, which encompasses Big Horn County and a portion of Rosebud County. The district is known for its diverse population, including a significant number of Indigenous residents, which likely influenced her campaign platform and approach to governance.

Legislative service

Jade Sooktis was elected to the Montana House of Representatives in the 2024 election, marking the beginning of her legislative service. She ran for office following the decision of incumbent Gayle Lammers to pursue a position in the Montana State Senate. Sooktis's campaign was successful, as she secured a notable victory over her Republican challenger, Da Wallowing Bull, receiving a majority of the votes cast in the election. This victory positioned her as a representative of her district and a voice for her constituents in the state legislature.

Upon her election, Sooktis was assigned to several important committees, including the State Administration Committee and the Human Services Committee. These committees play a critical role in shaping legislation related to state governance and social services, respectively. Her involvement in these committees allows her to contribute to discussions and decisions that impact the lives of her constituents, particularly in areas such as public administration, health care, and social welfare.

Sooktis's tenure in the Montana House of Representatives has also been marked by her active participation in legislative discussions and her engagement with fellow lawmakers. In February 2025, she was one of three Native American legislators who walked out of a speech delivered by Senator Tim Sheehy. This action was a response to Sheehy's refusal to apologize for comments he made that were perceived as disparaging towards Indigenous people. The walkout highlighted Sooktis's commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of Indigenous communities, as well as her willingness to take a stand against remarks that she and her colleagues found offensive.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Montana House of Representatives, Jade Sooktis has demonstrated a commitment to addressing issues that are significant to her constituents in District 41. The district includes Big Horn County and part of Rosebud County, areas that are home to a diverse population, including a substantial number of Indigenous residents. This demographic composition influences Sooktis's policy focus, as she seeks to represent the interests and concerns of these communities within the legislative framework.

Sooktis's membership in the American Indian Caucus underscores her dedication to advocating for Indigenous rights and issues. This caucus serves as a platform for Native American legislators to collaborate on policies that affect Indigenous peoples in Montana. Through her involvement, Sooktis aims to address a range of topics, including economic development, education, health care, and cultural preservation. These areas are critical for the well-being of Indigenous communities, and her legislative efforts are likely aimed at promoting equity and justice for these populations.

In addition to her focus on Indigenous issues, Sooktis's work on the State Administration and Human Services committees positions her to engage with broader social policy matters. The Human Services Committee, in particular, deals with legislation related to health care, social services, and welfare programs, which are essential for supporting vulnerable populations. By participating in these discussions, Sooktis can advocate for policies that improve access to health care, enhance social support systems, and promote overall community well-being.

Sooktis's approach to governance reflects a commitment to inclusivity and representation, ensuring that the voices of her constituents are heard in the legislative process. Her actions and decisions as a legislator are informed by her understanding of the unique challenges faced by the communities she represents, and she strives to create policies that foster positive change.

In summary, Jade Sooktis's journey as a state legislator in Montana is characterized by her commitment to serving her constituents in District 41, her advocacy for Indigenous rights, and her active participation in legislative processes. Her election to the Montana House of Representatives marks a significant milestone in her career, and her ongoing work in the legislature continues to shape the political landscape of her district and the state as a whole.