Senate confirms Motl as political practices commissioner

HELENA (AP) — Montana senators confirmed Jonathan Motl as the state's commissioner of political practices on Friday.

Eight Republicans joined all 21 Senate Democrats in a 29-21 vote to confirm Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock's appointment. Motl's term will end Dec. 31, 2016.

Motl has decided 120 campaign practice cases since he was appointed by Bullock in 2013. The Helena attorney has come under fire during those two years for what opponents call a bias against Republican candidates.

"It's our duty to cast a vote that is not in our political best interest but in the best interest of the state of Montana," Sen. Frederick Moore, R-Miles City, said before voting against Motl's confirmation.

Details in Monday's Havre Daily News.