Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has suspended Brad Molnar from the Public Service Commission (PSC) due to alleged misconduct, including sexual harassment and retaliatory behavior, as detailed in a letter dated July 9. This decision comes after ongoing complaints from PSC employees and a request from three commissioners to remove Molnar, who was recently demoted from PSC president to commissioner. The suspension takes immediate effect and will last for at least one year. The Governor’s office has not yet announced whether a replacement will be appointed during Molnar’s suspension.
Molnar claims the suspension is politically motivated, describing himself as a “redneck wearing a white shirt” and arguing that his comments do not justify overturning an election. The PSC’s current focus includes major energy agreements with NorthWestern Energy, Montana’s largest utility, involving a proposed $3.6 billion merger and new electricity rates affecting data-center development. Despite the suspension, Molnar remains the most experienced commissioner, with eight years at the PSC and a long history as a state lawmaker.
Attorney Matthew Monforton, representing Molnar, criticized the process as designed to sideline Molnar, asserting it was intended to smooth the path for the Governor’s utility agenda. The investigation into Molnar’s conduct began in February 2025, following accusations of misconduct. Gianforte initially refused to suspend Molnar during the investigation, citing the need for due process. However, upon reviewing the investigation’s findings, Gianforte agreed to a suspension.
Specific allegations in Gianforte’s letter include inappropriate comments such as “Topless Tuesdays” and threats regarding a coworker’s family. Monforton acknowledged some comments, labeling them as off-color jokes, and confirmed plans to challenge the suspension in court. Molnar is committed to defending his position and maintaining his fight for Montana consumers against special interests, arguing that he has not received due process.
Molnar’s conflicts with the PSC have led to court battles, including a recent injunction allowing him access to the PSC office during a critical hearing. He continues to contest Gianforte’s actions as politically driven, aiming to undermine his regulatory oversight of major energy deals.
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