This is the third story in a series about where Montana’s candidates for federal office stand on issues important to voters. Montana Free Press has also published pieces about candidates’ plans to address affordability, a crucial issue for voters, and healthcare policies of candidates, a top priority for 60% of Montanans.
Immigration enforcement is a hot topic among Montana voters according to a recent poll conducted by Montana Free Press-Eagleton.
In the survey, 74% of respondents expressed strong opinions on ICE’s performance. Opinions were divided: 40% strongly approved, while 34% disapproved. An earlier poll revealed that 82% had strong opinions, with a slight majority approving ICE’s role.
Rallies opposing Trump’s immigration policy occurred in Montana communities in April 2025, June 2025, and March 2026.
Eleven candidates vie for U.S. House and Senate seats in Montana’s 2026 elections. They were asked:
- What changes would you support for immigration and border-security policy? Specify laws, programs, or enforcement actions, funding plans, and evidence of effectiveness.
Each candidate was limited to 300 words, ensuring fairness. Their responses are unedited.
U.S. Senate
Kurt Alme, Republican
President Biden’s open-border policies have jeopardized national safety, with millions of illegal entries. Incidents like the murder of Laken Riley by an illegal alien underline the need for strong border security. As U.S. Attorney, I focused on prosecuting criminal aliens and drug traffickers. I propose cutting funds to sanctuary cities and benefits to illegal immigrants.
Kyle Austin, Libertarian
I advocate a lawful immigration system, expanded legal pathways, and enhanced border security. Congress should modernize asylum laws, increase immigration staff, and use improved technology. I oppose outsourcing jobs and support funding through visa fees.
Alani Bankhead, Democrat
Border security is vital, yet 90% of fentanyl is seized at legal ports. ICE needs restructuring to improve efficiency. I propose transferring immigration courts out of the Justice Department and focusing on genuine threats. Funding can shift from detention to inspection and backlog solutions.
Seth Bodnar, Independent
Immigration reform should ensure strong borders and uphold citizens’ rights. In Washington, politicians often politicize immigration instead of solving it. I commit to empowering law enforcement, improving border control, and collaborating on comprehensive reform.
U.S. House, Western Congressional District
Aaron Flint, Republican
Supporting Montana law enforcement is crucial. I propose strengthening border security, deporting criminal aliens, and requiring local cooperation with federal immigration officers. Funding should come from federal appropriations, not local taxpayers. Success equals no illegal crossings.
Sam Forstag, Democrat
Our immigration system demands reform. I’ll collaborate across parties to expand legal pathways and make immigration courts independent. Reforming enforcement to focus on serious criminals will protect communities and uphold constitutional freedoms.
Nick Sheedy, Libertarian
Sheedy did not respond to MTFP’s question. MTFP was unable to locate a public stance by the candidate regarding the issue.
U.S. House, Eastern Congressional District
Troy Downing, Republican
Downing did not respond to MTFP’s question. He previously sponsored a bill denying HUD funding to “sanctuary cities” and stated, “If a sanctuary city is not complying with federal law, we should not allocate American taxpayers’ hard-earned money to those areas.”
Michael Eisenhauer, Independent
I support secure borders, enforcement of laws, and viable legal pathways. Fully fund CBP, prioritize threats like fentanyl, and reform immigration courts. Employment verification is essential. Fund actions via immigration fees, reducing detention costs.
Patrick McCracken, Libertarian
The current immigration system strains our welfare state. Corporate interests benefit at taxpayers’ expense. I propose deporting illegal immigrants under existing law, ending the H1-B program, and pausing immigration to assimilate newcomers.
Brian Miller, Democrat
We need border security and fair immigration reform. Targeting real criminals is key, not focusing on minor offenses. A pathway to citizenship is necessary, with updated immigration reform that ensures security and economic contributions.
Nora Mabie contributed reporting.
The post Montana candidates on the issues: immigration appeared first on Montana Free Press.
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