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September 3, 2026
U.S. Rep. Troy Downing is attempting to block HUD funding for “sanctuary cities,” targeting Montana communities limiting cooperation with ICE. With Congress running out of time for new bills, Downing’s proposal focuses on cities that withhold information from federal officers or fail to detain individuals arrested by immigration agents.
Downing’s bill asserts that cities not adhering to federal immigration laws shouldn’t receive HUD funds, saying on social media, “If a city refuses to cooperate with federal immigration law, it should not receive a dime in HUD funding.”
The Republican lawmaker hasn’t clarified how the bill would influence Helena, which rescinded its noncooperation resolution after Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s lawsuit threat. In April, Knudsen accused the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office of withholding criminal justice information from ICE, taking control of the office—a move under review by Montana’s Supreme Court.
Montana has a law prohibiting refuge for undocumented immigrants. Knudsen and Gov. Greg Gianforte highlighted that ICE opposition violates state laws during a press conference. However, cities like Bozeman and Missoula focus on public safety and avoid immigration enforcement.
Some Montana counties have signed 287(g) agreements with ICE. Flathead and Gallatin counties’ agreements allow officers to serve warrants on detained individuals. Carter, Garfield, and Treasure counties can question and arrest for immigration violations during policing.
With the House having only 31 working days left this year, Downing’s bill has slim chances for a vote. He’s up for reelection on Nov. 3 in Montana’s Eastern Congressional District.
Ballot Changes
Several changes occurred in state legislative races before the secretary of state finalized the Nov. ballot on Aug. 20. Notable is Bozeman Democrat Becky Edwards replacing another candidate in House District 57, which was a close contest in 2024.
Jordan Viegut, a firefighter, withdrew to focus on family, leaving Edwards to face Republican Bob Crank. Edwards previously represented House District 61 and is with conservation group Mountain Mamas.
Meanwhile, Senate District 29 sees Democrat Scott Rosenzweig competing against Jason Gunderson, indicating potential shifts in a traditionally Republican-held seat.
Also, in House District 77, Democrat Deborah Anne Hansen’s withdrawal leaves Republican Jane Gillette unopposed. In Great Falls, Libertarian Dave Von Eschen withdrew to not split the conservative vote, leaving Democrat Neal Miller and Republican Jason Lorang in the race.
For more details, visit MTFP’s 2026 Election Guide.
Fourth Time a Charm?
After three court rejections, Montana Republicans continue challenging term limit definitions. Attorney General Austin Knudsen appeals to the Supreme Court, attempting to block legislators from switching chambers after reaching term limits.
Knudsen’s interpretation aimed to prevent veterans Steve Fitzpatrick and Llew Jones from appearing on ballots, but they successfully sued. A lower court blocked Knudsen’s opinion, and the Supreme Court refused immediate intervention due to timing issues.
Now, Knudsen seeks an expedited Supreme Court decision before election certification. He insists on resolving the legal and constitutional elements the court previously highlighted.
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