The Montana Democratic Party hosted forums for its federal office candidates on April 12 at the Helena Avenue Theater. Mike Dennison, a retired journalist, moderated the debates featuring Democratic candidates for the state’s two U.S. House districts and a U.S. Senate seat. Candidates discussed key issues affecting Montana and the broader U.S., focusing on presidential powers, economic disparity, and military actions abroad, among others.
Eastern Montana U.S. House District MT-02 (Billings, Great Falls, Helena and East)
Question: “Many believe President Trump has overstepped his authority. Do you agree, and how would you address it if elected?”
Sam Lux: “Congress needs to reclaim its powers, especially regarding illegal tariffs and wars, which are not presidential powers.”
Jonathan Windy Boy: “The tariffs hurt Montanans. Impeachment should be considered if it hits Congress.”
Brian Miller: “We need to impeach him and ensure the presidency is safeguarded from future abuses. The corruption and power abuse need addressing.”
Question: “What should Congress do about the wealth gap?”
Jonathan Windy Boy: “Repeal the bill that inflated the deficit by $4.8 trillion, benefitting the top 1%.”
Brian Miller: “Corporations should be taxed fairly. Corporate tax receipts are too low compared to federal revenue.”
Sam Lux: “Increase corporate taxes to 25-30% of GDP and higher taxes on ultra-high-net-worth individuals.”
Question: “What could improve the economy and job prospects?”
Sam Lux: “Enhance broadband access and support Job Corps programs to boost job opportunities in rural areas.”
Jonathan Windy Boy: “Localize food supply by utilizing Montana’s cattle, reducing dependency on imported meat.”
Brian Miller: “Expand agricultural infrastructure to support farmers over corporations.”
Western Montana U.S. House District MT-01 (Bozeman, Butte, Missoula and Kalispell)
Question: “What’s your opinion on outside spending in the Western District primary?”
Sam Forstag: “I reject corporate PAC and dark money while supporting labor unions.”
Matt Rains: “Winning requires significant funding, possibly $5-$6 million, beyond grassroots support.”
Russell Cleveland: “I rely only on individual contributions, running a clean campaign.”
Ryan Busse: “Address dark money influence and ensure campaign integrity.”
Question: “Do you support President Trump’s decision to attack Iran?”
Matt Rains: “Congress should declare war, not the president. The Middle East is in a dangerous situation.”
Russell Cleveland: “One man shouldn’t dictate the fate of thousands. Trumpism affects fuel prices and the economy.”
Ryan Busse: “Congress must act as a coequal branch, not a sycophant for the president.”
Sam Forstag: “Representatives must have a stake in big decisions affecting lives.”
Question: “Does Congress play a role in closing the child care affordability gap?”
Russell Cleveland: “A Department of Youth Development would support universal pre-K and enhance learning outcomes.”
Ryan Busse: “We waste funds on wars, yet ignore child care affordability, making poor national decisions.”
Sam Forstag: “Universal child care and pre-K are possible by expanding existing programs.”
Matt Rains: “Federal support should minimize child care costs, allowing families to pursue better livelihoods.”
U.S. Senate
Question: “With the wealth gap widening, what can Congress do?”
Alani Bankhead: “Ensure fair taxation and bring resources to Main Street for collective economic improvement.”
Michael Hummert: “Balancing the budget restricts excess spending benefiting only billionaires and corporations.”
Reilly Neill: “Raise minimum wages to match living costs and attract fair-paying industries.”
Michael Black Wolf: “Support unions, balance budgets, and use common sense with national finances.”
Question: “How will you tackle the affordable housing crisis?”
Reilly Neill: “Direct federal infrastructure funds to housing incentives for veterans and low-income families.”
Michael Black Wolf: “Oppose large-scale investors and support community-focused state investments.”
Alani Bankhead: “Adjust capital gains limits and offer tax breaks to companies investing in affordable housing.”
Question: “As a senator, what will you prioritize for Montana’s Native Americans?”
Reilly Neill: “Uphold treaties, respect sovereignty, and protect the 14th Amendment rights of tribes.”
Michael Black Wolf: “Address underfunding of Indian Health Services, honoring federal obligations to tribes.”
Alani Bankhead: “Combat child exploitation and protect against basic crimes with federal intervention.”
Michael Hummert: “Congress should ensure oversight in spending for Native American communities.”
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