Recent developments in Montana politics brought renewed attention to a past sexual misconduct complaint against Jonathan Windy Boy, now a state senator and Democratic candidate for the U.S. House from the Eastern District. Former state Sen. Jen Gross revealed she was the complainant in a 2018 allegation involving Windy Boy, which led to an investigation by Legislative Services. Windy Boy has re-entered the race after temporarily suspending his campaign due to another harassment claim. Gross’s disclosure emphasizes the ongoing scrutiny over Windy Boy’s conduct.
Montana Free Press reached out to Windy Boy for comment but received no response. In 2019, the Associated Press detailed allegations against Windy Boy, including harassing texts to a female legislator. Gross confirmed she filed that complaint. Her Substack post describes receiving inappropriate messages from Windy Boy in 2017. “I was a freshman legislator. There was no formal harassment policy in place,” she wrote.
After reporting the texts to House leadership, Gross emailed Windy Boy, who promptly apologized. The complaint prompted an investigation, confirming Windy Boy’s harassment. Although no formal disciplinary action was recorded, Windy Boy resigned as a committee chairman before the 2019 session. The case led to new confidential procedures for reporting harassment in the legislature.
In Friday’s post, Gross explained her choice to speak out due to Windy Boy’s re-entry into the primary race. Windy Boy labeled the accusations as a “smear campaign.” Rival candidate Brian Miller previously publicized unrelated allegations from 2002. Despite these claims, no charges have been filed.
Senate President Matt Regier commended Gross for her bravery. He called for Windy Boy’s resignation, mentioning his removal from committee duties earlier this week. Windy Boy contests the Democratic primary against Brian Miller and Sam Lux, seeking to challenge Republican Troy Downing. Gross expressed hope for Windy Boy’s withdrawal from the race.
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