Lifelong Great Falls resident Eric Peterson today outlined his background, community involvement, and key priorities as he seeks to represent Montana House District 21.
Peterson, who was born and raised in the Valley View subdivision, said his connection to the district has shaped his commitment to public service.
“Living in House District 21 has always been an important part of my life,” Peterson said. “When I purchased a home, I chose to return to the same neighborhood where I grew up.”
A graduate of Montana State University with a degree in Film and Television Production, Peterson worked in television news and production for nearly a decade. He also served more than 37 years in the Montana Air National Guard, retiring in 2018 as Public Affairs Superintendent.
Since retiring, Peterson has remained active in the community. He has been elected four times to Great Falls Neighborhood Council 3 and currently serves as chair. He has logged more than 1,100 volunteer hours with the Great Falls Police Department and serves on the boards of the Great Falls/Cascade County Crimestoppers and the Montana Veterans Memorial Association.
In 2024, Peterson was elected Precinct 21A Committeeman for the Cascade County Republican Central Committee. He has also served as a mentor for the 8th Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court.
Peterson described himself as a “common-sense Republican” who values public service and community engagement. He said his experience with Neighborhood Council 3 has prepared him for the responsibilities of state office.
“I would be honored and proud to serve the residents of House District 21,” Peterson said.
Peterson identified public safety and the rising cost of living as the top concerns among residents. According to 2024 data from the Montana Board of Crime Control Statistical Analysis Center, Cascade County ranks second in Montana for offense rates, with 8,779 total offenses and a rate of 1,034 per 10,000 residents.
“This is unacceptable,” Peterson said. “As a legislator, I will support law enforcement with policies that modernize and strengthen our police departments and sheriff’s offices, expand services for crime victims, and prioritize getting illegal drugs off our streets.”
Peterson also emphasized the need to address affordability challenges.
“While the state cannot control the national economy, we can pursue solutions that save taxpayers money through lower fees, streamlined regulations, and reduced taxes,” he said.
On education, Peterson said parents should have the ability to choose the best educational opportunities for their children, including charter and private schools, but he does not support redirecting public school funding to private institutions.
Regarding taxes, Peterson said the legislature must ensure fairness while identifying savings by eliminating outdated or unnecessary programs and distributing the tax burden more evenly.
He also raised health and safety concerns about Montana Initiative 190, which legalized recreational marijuana, and said he would support sending the issue back to voters. Additionally, he supports legislation restricting the sale of substances such as kratom and similar products.
By Eric Peterson Campaign Staff: May 11, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt
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