Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke has released a statement following the announcement of a proposed merger between Northwestern Energy and Black Hills Energy.
“The proposed merger between Northwestern Energy and Black Hills Energy can strengthen the grid, support good-paying jobs, and deliver more affordable, reliable power across our state,” said Zinke. “In Montana, reliable energy isn’t optional, our winters are too harsh and our communities too remote to leave families, schools, and small businesses in the dark or without heat. I support this merger as it leads to improved energy security, and I’ll continue working with Northwestern Energy and Black Hills Energy to ensure it delivers real value to Montanans who dependable on access to dependable, affordable, power, no matter the season or the weather.”
Zinke is currently serving as the U.S. Representative for Montana’s 1st District after replacing Steve Daines in 2023. He previously served in the Montana Senate from 2009 to 2013. Born in Bozeman in 1961, Zinke now lives in Whitefish. He holds degrees from both the University of Oregon and National University.



