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March 13, 2025
Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court Cory Swanson seeks clarity before Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s disciplinary hearing about whether a 90-day law suspension creates an attorney general vacancy. The inquiry arises after Knudsen undermined court confidence.
State law indicates an office becomes vacant if duties are not discharged for three months unless due to illness, legislative permission, or military service.
In October, Knudsen was found in violation of professional standards 41 times for defying a Supreme Court order, with some infractions linked to his Department of Justice staff. The maximum penalty could be a 90-day suspension. Knudsen and Timothy Strauch of the Office of Disciplinary Counsel must submit briefs by March 24, with the hearing set for March 28.
Failing to disclose
The Senate Ethics Committee’s investigation into Sen. Jason Ellsworth resumes Friday, scrutinizing a past business relationship with a contractor securing a $170,100 contract. The contract involves monitoring new bills that restrict Montana courts. Multiple senators have failed to disclose business ties, violating state compliance requirements.
Records indicate 25 senators lack disclosure forms, with one lawmaker not having filed since 2020. COPP staff advised lawmakers of their obligations in February. The Department of Justice is also reviewing allegations that Ellsworth divided a contract to bypass competitive bidding. Legislative Auditor Angus Maciver claims Ellsworth’s actions constituted a misdemeanor abuse of power.
A new representative for House District 87
After former lawmaker Ron Marshall resigned, Terry Nelson was appointed to fill House District 87. Ravalli County commissioners selected Nelson following two rounds of nominations by the local GOP central committee. Nelson, who headed the central committee, was chosen over former legislators Wayne Rusk and Michele Binkley.
The nomination process highlighted tension within the GOP, with Rusk and Binkley losing primaries to more conservative challengers. During public interviews, commissioners questioned candidates on their representation priorities. Nelson stated, “First and foremost, I represent my God. After that, I believe the citizens in my district are the ones that should be represented.”
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