Forrest was born and raised in Columbus, where he still lives. He is a husband, father to three young children, and a small business owner. In 2014 Forrest was elected to serve the people of House District 57 (Stillwater and Eastern Sweet Grass Counties). He has chaired the House State Administration Committee the last two sessions. This Committee hears bills on election law, as well as bills relating to campaign finance, public employee retirement systems and benefits, public contracts, military affairs and veterans issues, and state buildings. This experience has given Forrest a depth of knowledge and understanding of these issues. His leadership and fairness as Chair of the Committee is admired by members of both parties, lobbyists, and members of the public.

He has repeatedly carried legislation to ensure access to voting, to improve efficiency and communication with the public in government agencies, and to encourage responsible natural resource development. He has a reputation for working with all stakeholders to reach consensus on complicated issues.

Forrest is also in his third interim serving on the State Administration and Veterans' Affairs Interim Committee, which studies and maintains oversight of election issues, pensions, veterans' affairs, and other agencies. One of the Committee's main study areas is accessibility for disabled electors, a study authorized by one of Rep. Mandeville's bills. Now Forrest is running for Secretary of State! Forrest is running to continue working for the people of Montana on issues important to them. As a strong advocate for secure and accessible elections, ensuring a friendly business climate, and protecting Montana jobs through the responsible development of natural resources, he is ideally suited to serve as Secretary of State.