October 24, 2024
Montana’s Commission on Practice suggested a 90-day suspension for Attorney General Austin Knudsen over claims of misconduct. The decision raises questions about whether Knudsen, facing reelection, can serve if barred from practicing law. These charges stem from Knudsen and his team accusing the Montana Supreme Court of bias, allegedly violating rules meant to uphold confidence in the justice system. The Supreme Court will review the recommendation, though it’s not binding. Knudsen has 30 days to counter the recommendation, indicating a potential delay in resolution.
In Montana’s contentious legal climate, Knudsen’s office faced 41 charges related to defending the 2021 Legislature in a records dispute with the judiciary. The Supreme Court had ruled these records should have remained private. The commission found Knudsen defied court orders and criticized the justices, accusing them of bias and misconduct. Knudsen admitted some language used by his team was too harsh, though he denied violating professional conduct rules.
The panel argued Knudsen could have represented the Legislature without breaching conduct rules, noting he wasn’t required to accept them as clients since they had access to other legal counsel. The commission dismissed his defense, emphasizing accountability for attorneys.
A fight for satellite voting
Fort Peck Tribal members sued two Montana counties for better satellite voting access. Current provisions have proven insufficient, with locations open briefly or for just a few days. Roosevelt County’s Poplar polling place saw high turnout, while Valley County offered limited hours despite early requests from the tribes. Attorney Brett Healy noted, “Only Glacier County offers a reservation polling site on Election Day.” Legal battles over Native voting rights continue as tribes push for more accessible polling locations.
Senate race spending grows higher
Montana’s Senate race spending exceeded $227 million by mid-October. Incumbent Sen. Jon Tester’s campaign finance reports showed $70 million raised, while Republican Tim Sheehy added $20 million. Tester’s $30 million from individual donors set a record for state federal races, with significant support from California, New York, and Montana. Sheehy drew major contributions from Montana and other states, including California, Florida, and Texas. Campaign spending continues to escalate as the election approaches.
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