Montana Republicans are more satisfied than Democrats with the state government’s management of wildlife, environment, transportation infrastructure, and public safety, as revealed in a recent Montana Free Press-Eagleton poll surveying over 900 residents. Conducted by Rutgers University’s Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling, the survey asked about attitudes toward state governance and key public policy issues. Findings showed a majority satisfaction rate above 50% for these four categories.
Ashley Koning, director of the Eagleton Center, explained, “General population surveys are used in public opinion polling when we want to investigate issues, attitudes, and behaviors that pertain to the entire population under study.” Both parties, however, expressed dissatisfaction rates at or above 50% concerning property taxes, the cost of living, mental health, and state income taxes. Notably, property taxes on median Montana homes rose by an average of 21% in 2023 and may increase further.
Republicans, who control the Montana Legislature and state offices since the 2024 election, showed a 57-point difference with Democrats on abortion access. Statewide, over three in five Montanans support legal abortion under most circumstances, which was solidified by a constitutional ballot initiative approval in 2024. Medicaid expansion also sees bipartisan support, with Democrats strongly favoring its continuation compared to around 60% of Republicans.
On issues like housing and child care affordability, the poll exposed significant concerns among respondents. Nearly half of those surveyed were “very concerned” about housing affordability in the next five years. Two-thirds faced challenges affording rent, groceries, and childcare. Young adults and those earning under $50,000 reported the most financial difficulty. Furthermore, the poll highlighted the shared belief among two-thirds of Republicans and more than 90% of Democrats that state and local governments must ensure affordable housing availability.
For detailed information on the poll, visit the Montana Free Press microsite.
—
Read More Montana News
