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July 3, 2025
Art Wittich, the new Montana GOP chairman, aims to intensify Montana’s conservative identity. Although recent red-wave victories suggest a shift, Wittich argues there’s much to improve.
Speaking to party delegates, Wittich linked Montana’s moderate atmosphere to state courts overturning GOP-backed laws and some Republicans collaborating with Democrats on policies he criticizes, like the property tax overhaul supported by Gov. Greg Gianforte.
“We’re not delivering on the bold results that voters expect,” Wittich stated. He denounced the tax reform as an “awful tax shift,” arguing it inadequately addresses property tax relief.
Wittich, elected by over 200 delegates, plans to restructure the MTGOP. Proposals include a new “red policy committee” for legislative analysis and a “conservative governance committee” to endorse candidates in primary elections.
Wittich, familiar with intra-party conflicts, has been a key figure in Montana’s GOP disputes. He faced legal troubles in 2016 following a campaign finance law violation case, resulting in a hefty fine.
With veiled critiques towards the Conservative Solutions Caucus, Wittich targeted Republicans backing policies like Medicaid expansion. Recent alliances between some Republicans and Democrats on major legislation, often endorsed by Gianforte, led to these members being criticized at the party convention.
During the convention, a vote barred “The Nine” senators involved in these alliances from voting for party officers, emphasizing Wittich’s push for party purity.
Wittich emphasized vetting candidates for adherence to Republican ideals, highlighting the need for honesty within the party.
Last Respects
Notable Montanans lain in state include former governors Judy Martz, Tim Babcock, Tom Judge, and others, as recorded by the Montana Historical Society.
Replacing Bertoglio
Gov. Greg Gianforte recently appointed Rep. Marta Bertoglio as the new director of the Montana Department of Commerce. Candidates for her House seat include Terry Churchill, Ron Bartsch, and others. The Jefferson County commissioners are yet to decide on a replacement.
Programming Note
Dear readers: The Capitolized newsletter will shift to a twice-monthly schedule over the summer. Look for the next issue on Thursday, July 17, continuing every other week until spring 2026.
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