Nearly the entire Democratic caucus of Montana, with 57 state lawmakers, has appealed to Governor Greg Gianforte in a letter to revise new rules prohibiting weekend rallies on Capitol grounds. The lawmakers argue that this change restricts Montanans’ ability to express their opinions freely. The governor has not yet provided any comment on this matter.
The Montana Free Press revealed the recent guideline changes, which restrict public events needing permits to weekdays, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding holidays. This sparked criticism from organizers of the “No Kings” rally set for March 28, who argue it infringes on First Amendment rights. State officials claim the rules help reduce costs.
In the letter, Democratic lawmakers stressed that revoking weekend permits blocks Montanans, especially those living far from Helena and working full-time during the week, from participating in essential civic engagement. They urged the governor to bring back the practice of allowing weekend events, stating it would reinforce Montana’s dedication to constitutional rights and public ownership of the Capitol.
Rep. Tom France, D-Missoula, who drafted the letter, criticized the administration for what he views as limiting public access to government. He attempted to gain bipartisan support by inviting Republican colleagues to join but received no response. France emphasized that constitutional freedoms should transcend political divides and expressed hope for a policy reversal.
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