On Friday, the Senate Ethics Committee moved forward to a hearing for former Senate President Jason Ellsworth, amidst opposition from the Hamilton Republican. The core issue revolves around Ellsworth’s potential failure to disclose his ties to a business associate poised to gain from a significant state contract valued as high as $170,100. During the hearing, Ellsworth spent 15 minutes detailing rules he claimed the Ethics Committee ignored.
Ellsworth expressed skepticism over the fairness of the upcoming hearing, scheduled for March 7, coinciding with the legislative deadline for non-revenue bill exchanges between the House and Senate. Senate Republican spokesperson Kyle Schmauch referenced 200 to 300 Senate bills pending committee action. “I’m going to be calling Senator Tom McGillvray if this continues,” said Ellsworth. “Sen. McGillvray has already stated on the [Senate] floor that I need to resign.”
McGillvray, a key Ethics Committee member and Senate majority leader, is amidst a charged environment, as the Senate recently voted for a hearing into Ellsworth’s conduct. The committee established general rules for the upcoming hearing, including subpoena powers. Ellsworth’s attorney, Joan Mell, criticized the 24-hour notice for witness exchanges, stating it allowed inadequate preparation time.
Ellsworth is not mandated to testify in his defense. Special Counsel Adam Duerk, appointed by Senate President Matt Regier, emphasized ensuring Ellsworth receives a fair hearing. “Due process will be awarded to Sen. Ellsworth,” Duerk assured. The investigation focuses on a contract awarded to associate Bryce Eggleston, which Ellsworth facilitated in reviewing state agencies’ implementation of laws aimed at curbing judicial powers.
Legislative staff noted red flags with two initial contracts exceeding $80,000 each, speculating Ellsworth’s motives to stay below the $100,000 bid threshold. The Department of Administration made an exception, approving the unified contract. In January, allegations surfaced against Ellsworth for misusing power to allegedly split contracts, concealing ties with Eggleston, who has since withdrawn. The Department of Justice review is underway for alleged non-disclosure, with potential misdemeanor charges for power abuse stemming from the ethics inquiry.
—
Read More Montana News
