Daniel Zolnikov is a liberty-minded Republican representing Senate District 22 in the Montana State Senate. Elected to the Senate in 2022 , he previously represented House District 45 from 2013 to 2020, taking a two-year hiatus before returning. He currently serves as Majority Whip . Zolnikov is a strong advocate for the Second Amendment, limited government, civil liberties, gun rights, economic freedom, and simplified tax codes. Notable achievements include passing 15 bills in 2023, such as the nation's strongest DNA protections , an omnibus online privacy bill , pro-digital mining legislation, simplified processes for transmission lines and pipelines, tax appeal board clarifications, a new state tourism vision, mixed-use housing zoning, emergency housing for human trafficking and domestic violence victims, smart meter data ownership laws, ride-sharing legalization , pro-blockchain measures, cellphone location warrant requirements, reporter communications protections, and minor immunity for seeking emergency medical attention. He has specialized in 21st-century technology policies, energy , privacy, tourism, housing, and human trafficking.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Montana with three business majors in Information Systems, Marketing, and Management, plus a minor in Political Science. Received his MBA in 2019.
• Professional Experience: Works as an energy developer, marketing consultant for small Montana businesses, and coach.
• Political Experience: First elected to the Montana House in his mid-20s ; served until 2020; returned to Senate in 2022 for District 22. Focuses on technology opportunities/risks, energy policy, and bipartisan efforts like ride-sharing and blockchain. Enjoys fishing, swimming, hunting, and Montana's outdoor lifestyle.