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June 25, 2026
Are data centers the focal point of Montana’s political discourse? Democrats seem to think so.
At the June 20 convention in Billings, the Montana Democratic Party proposed a two-year moratorium on new data center projects. These facilities, essential for AI and bitcoin mining, raise concerns about increased power bills and water scarcity.
Data centers have seen fluctuating success in Montana, with failed projects in Bonner, Butte, and Hardin. Yet, interest is growing due to AI’s data needs.
New projects are expanding in size and power consumption, like Quantica’s proposal near Broadview, which may exceed the entire Montana customer base of NorthWestern Energy. The proposed site covers five square miles.
Broadview, located 32 miles northwest of Billings, saw the Yellowstone County Democrats propose a 2-year pause at the recent convention.
Former Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer hosted a seminar with Montana Conservation Voters, highlighting public disapproval. “Nationwide data centers have a 30% approval rating. In Montana, they have a 22% approval rating,” Schweitzer stated.
This issue echoes past energy crises, drawing parallels to the deregulation of the Montana Power Company, which backfired on consumers.
Former U.S. Sen. Jon Tester remarked, “They need to start talking about what they’re for and not what they’re against,” on Sunday Night with Chuck Todd. He acknowledged AI’s inevitable rise and its significant resource demands.
The Montana Republican Party also adjusted its platform, advocating for local input on projects like “data centers, wind farms and solar farms.”
Building trades unions are enthusiastic about potential construction work.
—Tom Lutey
New Rules for Republicans
After a contentious primary, MTGOP implemented new bylaws to tighten party membership and discipline members who defy party principles.
The bylaws introduced on June 13 require members to register and pay dues. They outline a new process for suspending or terminating memberships, though specific reasons remain unspecified.
Party divisions trace back to the 2025 Legislature, where centrists collaborated with Democrats and Gov. Greg Gianforte on key legislation.
The centrist faction mostly survived the primary, and Democrats could gain a Senate seat in November 2026 under redrawn districts.
New bylaws also affect precinct committeemen and committeewomen. Some appointments in Cascade, Flathead, and Yellowstone counties have drawn attention amid local electoral dissatisfaction.
In June, county leadership endorsed a challenger to Sheriff Brian Heino, who secured over 80% of the vote.
—Tom Lutey
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