Senate confirms Motl as political practices commissioner

HELENA - Montana senators confirmed Jonathan Motl Friday as the state's commissioner of political practices.

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.

Sen. John Brenden, R-Scobey, voted to confirm Motl while Sen. Kris Hansen, R-Havre, voted against his confirmation.

Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, joined in the unanimous Democratic approval.

Motl has decided 120 campaign practice cases since he was appointed by Bullock in 2013. The Helena attorney has come under fire...