Legislative Report

I write to you from Helena, not as a career politician, but as a public servant and neighbor, to address the negative, untrue press surrounding the “nasty nine” nickname. Let me set the record straight.

This is my first elected office and I serve because I care deeply about northeast Montana — my friends, family and neighbors. Above all, I am a husband and father and I let my family’s values and integrity speak for themselves. I am not swayed by partisan politics but guided by my Christian faith and conservative beliefs — less government, strong support for the private sector and individual freedoms.

I ran as a Republican because I believe in those values. I will always remain true to my commitment to ensuring this district thrives. Whether as an EMT, representing our local co-op, or volunteering for our local Chamber of Commerce, I have been on the front lines, always willing to help wherever needed.

My goals in Helena are simple: to advocate for fair access to state resources for our communities and to protect critical services. A key example is Medicaid expansion. I am committed to securing the funding that keeps our hospitals, ambulances and life-saving services running.

When I arrived in Helena, it was clear that the Senate’s process had been tampered with to stack the deck against Medicaid expansion before I had a chance to vote in support. I also opposed political maneuvers that conflicted with my belief in less government interference and lower taxes. I strongly support the governor’s tax cuts for businesses, farmers, ranchers and homeowners because Montanans deserve to keep more of what they earn. Our focus should be on lowering tax burdens and empowering private enterprise, not on political games or backroom deals.

Moreover, I found it unethical that the Senate president hired my primary opponent to his office, a move that felt intended to intimidate me into supporting his priorities, which served the Flathead, not northeast Montana.

I am just one vote, but I stand firm in using it to fight for both lower taxes and vital services like Medicaid expansion. I will continue to prioritize northeast Montana, using my voice and vote to put our district first.

The challenges we face are real, but my commitment to you is unwavering. Leadership is about service, not labels. Let’s focus on what we can do together to strengthen northeast Montana.

Thank you for your support as we move forward. Feel free to reach out with any questions — please include the community in which you live in the subject line.