Elinor Smith
Reporter and evening news hostElinor graduated from the University of Montana School of Journalism in 2024, where she reported for the UM Legislative News Service and worked with The Montana Media Lab teaching high schoolers about reporting stories both for the radio and for podcasts.
She joined the MTPR team during the summer of 2024 as an intern. She now reports, creates social media content and hosts All Things Considered.
Elinor grew up in Boise, Idaho and enjoys spending her free time crocheting and writing short stories. She can be reached by email at elinor.smith@umontana.edu.
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A jury ruled in favor of Ravalli County Thursday in a federal class-action lawsuit over the county’s Jail Diversion Program. A jury ruled that the fees inmates pay for that program are constitutional. -
The Montana Department of Justice is warning Montanans to be wary of fraudulent text messages appearing to be from the Motor Vehicle Division, or MVD. The MVD does not send text messages asking for payment. If you receive such a text from MVD, it is likely a scam. -
Landowners in the state can now apply for 2026 hunting access programs through Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks. The first meeting for the state’s Licensing Reform Task Force took place in Helena Tuesday. -
According to a recent report issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Montana’s snowpack sits below average for this time of year. -
Court denies request to halt Montana GOP operations amid lawsuit from party members. Wildlife officials seek information on illegal introduction of non-native pike to a Kalispell pond.
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A long-time auto mechanic in the town of Froid, Montana has been swept up in President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Border Patrol recently arrested Roberto Orozco-Ramirez. Orozco-Ramirez is the community’s mechanic and volunteers as a youth baseball coach. Montana Free Press’ Nora Mabie has been reporting on the community’s reaction to his arrest. She sat down with MTPR’s Elinor Smith to go over the details. -
Montanans charged or convicted of crimes in the state often face barriers finding a job and housing, long after their cases have closed. And the internet creates a permanent record. The state is looking at ways to change that.
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According to a 2025 Forbes report, Montana ranks number one in the nation for drunk driving fatalities. One local nonprofit is offering a reward for drinkers who keep their keys in their pocket.
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A massive plumbing failure at Montana's state prison revealed serious faults in the facility’s infrastructure. Despite recent state investments, putting money into prison projects can be a hard sell. -
Homeowners can apply for reduced property tax rates on primary residences. A former Missoula County teacher has been charged with felony sexual abuse following an undercover investigation. Chronic wasting disease has been detected for the first time east of Great Falls.
