Author: ECB Staff

Last month E-City Beat emailed all Great Falls state legislative candidates requesting responses to three questions.

We received responses from three candidates – Tony Rosales (Libertarian HD22), Ed Buttrey (Republican HD21), and Fred Anderson (HD20).

Today we are publishing Fred Anderson’s responses. You can also read his candidate profile here.

Question One – Which position on abortion most closely describes the kind of legislation you would support in the Montana state legislature? Please choose only one option and feel free to briefly explain or expand on your views.

1. Abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy, including up until birth, with no exceptions.
2. Life begins at conception and abortion should not be legal at any time for any reason.
3. Abortion should be illegal after 12-14 weeks into a pregnancy except in cases of rape, incest, or life threatening risk to the mother.

Anderson:
I suspect that there will be more legislative options on the abortion issue than the three that you have presented for consideration. Choices two and three that have been presented for response are very finite with no room for consideration of extenuating circumstances.  Given those parameters and my belief that all life is precious, I select option two. 

Question Two – Describe what you will do if elected to address the lack of affordable housing in Montana. What specific legislation would you put forward or support to tackle this issue?

Anderson:
There is no “silver bullet” that will solve the lack of affordable housing in Montana.  The inflation that all of us are experiencing, combined with supply issues and labor shortages, have compounded the issue.  I believe the legislature will need to work with MACO and cities to review and update zoning regulations. The upturn in the construction of apartment buildings, townhouses and condominiums is making a positive impact on the shortage issue.  As the interest rates continue to increase, home ownership will become more of a challenge, especially for first time buyers.

Question Three – Describe in what way and on which issues you would ‘reach across the aisle’ to implement solutions for your constituents.

Anderson:
I will reach across the aisle to implement solutions for my constituents through collaboration and advocacy.  It is crucial that every bill be carefully studied to determine its potential benefit to my constituents and our state as well as its fiscal impact.  I welcome and always consider input from my constituents on issues while taking a common sense approach to each bill.

Last month E-City Beat emailed all Great Falls state legislative candidates requesting responses to three questions.

We received responses from three candidates – Tony Rosales (Libertarian HD22), Ed Buttrey (Republican HD21), and Fred Anderson (HD20).

Today we are publishing Ed Buttrey’s responses. You can also read his candidate profile here.

Question One – Which position on abortion most closely describes the kind of legislation you would support in the Montana state legislature? Please choose only one option and feel free to briefly explain or expand on your views.

1. Abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy, including up until birth, with no exceptions.
2. Life begins at conception and abortion should not be legal at any time for any reason.
3. Abortion should be illegal after 12-14 weeks into a pregnancy except in cases of rape, incest, or life threatening risk to the mother.

Buttrey:
If these were the only selections, I would likely support option 3.  I am a Pro-Life Republican, however I do believe that we need to consider real risks to the life and well-being of the mother.  If the life of the mother is truly at risk, if the mother has experienced the horrors of rape or incest, there needs to be consideration in the law.  Life of the baby is precious, but so is the life of the mother.  As a person that was fortunate to be adopted by a great family, I hope and support all that we can do to give every soul a chance at a life. 

Question Two – Describe what you will do if elected to address the lack of affordable housing in Montana. What specific legislation would you put forward or support to tackle this issue?

Buttrey:
Affordable housing is a key component for the State to have a good and reliable workforce.  There exists a lot of need for affordable housing, but as we can see in Great Falls, the private sector is stepping up to the task. It will take some time for these contractors to design, permit, build and complete these projects, but we are finally seeing some results (the Lofts at the Station, Discovery Meadows, Touro College Student Housing, Highland Development, Ponderosa Place, Arc Apartments, etc.). 

There are some Federal moneys that can be used by the State to assist developers, but these moneys are short term and will cease over time. I think the Legislature and State should look to incentivize private investment in workforce housing by providing tax benefits to those that invest.  These benefits will seek to increase private investment, which then reduces the amount of financing needed by the developers, incentivizes more project starts and should ultimately lower the cost of housing for those living in these developments.

Question Three – Describe in what way and on which issues you would ‘reach across the aisle’ to implement solutions for your constituents.

Buttrey:
The majority of items that we deal with in the Legislature are not politically divided. There are issues, however, that politically polarize the Legislature. Some of these items even divide the political parties themselves. I have always been a solutions-minded Legislator, and believe through hard work, diligence and an open mind, I can contribute to the well-being and success of our citizens. 

Listening to others, including those in other parties, often helps create a better solution. For solutions in healthcare, workforce, education, budget (HB2) and other key areas, I will always reach across any divide in an effort to find the best and most cost-effective solution for our citizens.

Last month E-City Beat emailed all Great Falls state legislative candidates requesting responses to three questions.

We received responses from three candidates – Tony Rosales (Libertarian HD22), Ed Buttrey (Republican HD21), and Fred Anderson (HD20).

First up is Tony Rosales’ responses. You can also read his candidate profile here.

Question One – Which position on abortion most closely describes the kind of legislation you would support in the Montana state legislature? Please choose only one option and feel free to briefly explain or expand on your views.

1. Abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy, including up until birth, with no exceptions.
2. Life begins at conception and abortion should not be legal at any time for any reason.
3. Abortion should be illegal after 12-14 weeks into a pregnancy except in cases of rape, incest, or life threatening risk to the mother.

Rosales:
“Abortion should be illegal after 12-14 weeks into a pregnancy except in cases of rape, incest, or life-threatening risk to the mother.”

In today’s political climate Republicans and Democrats often take extreme positions on this issue, but in the district 22 race, as the Libertarian, I am the moderate practical choice. This is one of those issues I dislike compromising on because I have my own religious beliefs as a Catholic.

However, this is the exact situation for which I am a Libertarian. I do not think my personal views on abortion should be a factor in how the State addresses the issue. The role of the State is to promote wellbeing – not enforce it – and that primarily includes education. This issue is similar to consuming alcohol while pregnant, the State should warn of the implications, but there should be little enforcement, especially in early pregnancy.

Question Two – Describe what you will do if elected to address the lack of affordable housing in Montana. What specific legislation would you put forward or support to tackle this issue?

Rosales:
Housing is a great example of when governments over exercise power. Many with an economics interest cite supply and demand as the problem. However, often your politicians take supply as the sole issue – i.e. regulatory barriers prevent new development. Solution here include removing or shifting regulations to local governments instead of state and federal, as well as ensuring zoning and other regulations are intended to help the local community – not used as a political tool to ensure someone does or does not develop property.

With that said, many politicians miss the role of demand in the housing market. Demand has been far more impactful. As we have learned from the 2008 recession – and learning again 10+ years later – interest rates, inflation, and the overall financial market effect how much demand there is, or in other words, how many people are looking for property and with how much cash on hand. We cannot stop people from wanting to buy houses, but we can ensure demand is not artificially created. This can ONLY be accomplished by exercising “checks and balances” outlined in our constitution. MT State Legislatures should be holding the federal government accountable for out-of-control deficit spending, historically high national debt, and an unconstitutional federal reserve system.

Until we tackle the heart of the problem – the federal government’s fiscal and monetary policy – housing problems will continue to surface as they did in 2008 and more recently. Like many other industries, we must move away from government-induced “socialism for the rich” and establish truly free markets managed by local communities.

Question Three – Describe in what way and on which issues you would ‘reach across the aisle’ to implement solutions for your constituents.

Rosales:
Likely as the only Libertarian State Legislator, my only option is to work collaboratively with Republicans and Democrats. However, my constituency in district 22 and I get to prioritize the issues based on our community concerns, not a party platform. This means if HD 22 wants me to focus on healthcare over cannabis or ensure the MT constitution protects privacy then I will work with other legislators to do so, which will likely include Democrats. I will also work with other legislators, likely including Republicans, on issues related to responsible fiscal spending or holding the federal government accountable. I want to ensure I represent the views, concerns, and will of the people in HD 22, and not the political establishment.

Steven Galloway is the GOP candidate and incumbent running for the Montana State Legislature in Great Falls/Cascade County HD24. His opponent is Democrat Barbara Bessette:

I am a Great Falls native, third generation Montanan and married to my amazing wife Representative Lola Sheldon-Galloway. We have been married for 41 years; Lola and I started with nothing and have lived the American dream! We have 6 adult children and 15 GRANDKIDS whose future is my motivation to serve you in HD24.

Growing up I helped run a motel and was a General Contractor for twelve years. My construction background led me into purchasing real estate to remodel the properties.  All of the hard work improving properties has led me to operate rentals,  both houses and apartments for over forty-seven years. We were awarded best improved rental by Neighborworks for 2009-2010. We have other businesses consisting of a retail building-hardware store and two food service business which I have owned for over 38 years.

I love to serve and at church served as teacher, counselor, executive secretary, facilities representative over buildings, and unit auditor. Some of the places I have served in the community are on a condominium board and coached kids in sports.  

I believe hard work gets results! Needs before wants! God blesses us with talents to share by serving others.

This last legislative session allowed us to get a good start on controlling our states spending. We have a projected budget surplus of 1.4 to 1.8 billion dollars. With savings and backup accounts fully funded  it should be returned to the tax payer NOW! We need to continue to root out waste, duplicities and inefficiencies. I know how to balance budgets, cut waste, increase productivity with training and positive reinforcement!

I have experienced the tax appraisal system as a property owner and heard many of the issues as a representative from my constituents. The property tax appraisal system is inequitable and unsustainable. It needs to be overhauled.

The Republican platform aligns best with my values. I approach each issue in a non-partisan approach to see both sides of every issue. My perspective is the sum of my experiences. Your perspective will be based on your experiences. We should always be able to share our perspectives to find the BEST options. We believe in limited government, the Constitution of the United States of America and in LIFE, LIBERTY and THE PURSUIT of HAPPINESS.

I proudly carried Veterans Bill HB-438 and 6 others signed by our Governor into law.

I have taken my elected office seriously and made this my full time job which has led me to attending many conventions, webinars and seminars to learn how to be a more effective servant as a legislator. Most of events have been at my own expense.

Committees I served on were the Local Government, Natural Resources and Business and Labor. I was assigned to Energy and Telecommunications Interim Committee. ETIC  has fascinated me and led me to studying Energy and how it affects our State and Country. It’s complex and a major issue that will affect our future and one of my passions. I received a degree from the University of Idaho for attending the Legislative Energy Horizon Institute.

With Commissioner Joe McKenney’s help we organized local legislators to meet with the county and city commissions together on a regular basis to better serve YOU!

I encourage you to put me to work for YOU in the next legislature. Let me be your voice.

RE-ELECT  REPRESENTATIVE
Steven E. Galloway

Judge David Grubich is a District Court Judge in Cascade County and seeks to retain his seat in November. He brings a unique and broad background to the court. He was appointed in July 2021 by Governor Gianforte. Before that, he served three years in a judicial position as the District Court Standing Master, hearing primarily family law cases including divorce and parenting plan proceedings. He also served as judge for the Veterans and Drug Treatment Courts assisting Judge Greg Pinski.

David is a U.S. Air Force veteran. He was stationed at Malmstrom AFB, where he served honorably in the Security Forces. Following his military service, David served a ten-year career in law enforcement rising from patrol officer to detective.   

While still in law enforcement, David and his wife, Valerie, opened a coffeehouse, which they successfully operated for five years. They sold their business and used the proceeds and savings to put themselves through law school. David graduated with honors from the University of Montana School of Law and worked at the Ugrin firm in Great Falls as a civil litigator practicing in a wide range of civil law areas.

David and Valerie have remodeled many homes in Great Falls together, doing most of the work themselves. David loves working with his hands, getting dirty, and creating quality homes for others. He and Valerie received the NeighborWorks Great Falls award for most improved rental 2020-2021.

David actively supports our community through community service, which has included leadership positions in the Chamber of Commerce Leadership Great Falls, the Cascade County Law Clinic (providing access to justice to low-income residents), the Cascade County Bar Association, Eagle Mount – Great Falls (current Board member), The Fortnightly, and is a current member of Rotary Electric in Great Falls. David actively promotes and practices volunteerism.   

Judge Grubich’s judicial philosophy is simple. Apply the law as it is written, protect the Constitutional rights of those appearing before him, and do not overstep the authority given to him as a judge. He has no political background and believes politics has no place on the bench. His judicial decision-making is driven by a desire to make decisions in strict accordance with the law. He is truly unbiased and independent. He is known for his integrity, character, work ethic, and his even-tempered, respectful, and common-sense approach to addressing people and cases.

David’s judicial experience presiding over family law cases ensures we have a judge well-versed in protecting the best interests of the children in our community. He brings dignity to the bench, and you can trust David will do his job as you would expect a judge to do it. He seeks justice and will protect our community.   

David lives in Great Falls with his wife, Valerie, and son, Evan. They enjoy dancing and all the wonders Montana has to offer. His love for his family inspires and fulfills him. His love for this community drives him to serve as judge for as long as Cascade County will have him.

Ed Buttrey is the GOP candidate and incumbent running for the Montana State Legislature in Great Falls/Cascade County HD21. His opponent is Democrat Lela Yael Graham:

I am a 4^th generation Montanan and business owner born and raised in Great Falls. I previously served in the Montana Senate working in leadership roles in each session, chairing multiple committees and serving as Majority Whip. I currently serve in leadership roles as Representative for HD21, elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2020. 

I am married to Jessica and together we are raising three beautiful young girls, Kenzy, Macy and TayLee. Hobbies include hunting, fishing, camping, football, exploring and any opportunity working as a coach or mentor for our children. 

I am passionate about public service and believe that we all have a responsibility to work hard for our community, state and nation. Serving in the Legislature and representing the people of HD21 has been an honor and blessing. My campaign slogan is “passion, not politics”, which means that I work hard to represent the values and needs of those who sent me to work in Helena, above all else. 

Hard work, knowledge of the law, leadership experience, and listening to those I represent are what make me the best candidate for election in House District 21. 

My priorities in the upcoming Legislative session are clear. Long term tax reform and economic development are at the top of the list. I don’t believe in political gimmicks and will work to ensure that hard working Montanans keep more of their hard-earned money year after year and that good jobs and opportunities are available. I will continue working to ensure that government supports its citizens and is not in the way of growth or opportunity for any of us. Government must be responsible, and responsive. 

With your support, I will continue working hard to represent the values and needs of those living in House District 21. On November 8^th, please cast your vote for Ed Buttrey to continue as your Representative for HD21. 

Fred Anderson is the GOP candidate and incumbent running for the Montana State Legislature in Great Falls/Cascade County HD20. His opponent is Democrat Samantha Rispens:

My name is Fred Anderson.  I was raised on a Montana ranch where I developed a strong work ethic and a well-defined set of values from my family.  In that setting, I learned to respect and work with diverse groups of people and the value of integrity.  I earned a Bachelor’s degree from Northern Montana College.  My Master’s degree and my PhD are from Colorado State University. 

I am a partner in the family ranch, have owned a small business, worked construction, operated heavy equipment and have served as a public school educator for over forty years.  My wife Vicky and I have three adult sons.  We enjoy spending time with our family, outdoor activities, sports and classic cars.

I am the best candidate to represent H.D. 20 because I am experienced in the legislative process, having served in the Montana Legislature since 2017.  I listen to constituent concerns and attempt to provide common sense solutions to address their needs, while treating everyone with the dignity and respect they deserve.  I study all bills presented and attend all committee meetings and floor sessions.

I have a PhD in Administration and Supervision and have served in leadership positions at local, state, and national levels.  My diverse experience, combined with a strong education foundation, provides me the insight to quantify the challenges facing our state while developing fiscally sound solutions.

During past legislative sessions, I have sponsored and carried bills in the legislature which have been signed into law by the Governor. These bills remove barriers for work based education and facilitate partnerships between business and public schools, remove barriers to controlling noxious weeds on private property, enhance funding for students with disabilities, make vaping and electronic alternatives to tobacco illegal in schools, promote anti-littering signage on highways and improve opportunities for horse racing in Montana.

I have received the Champion of Business award from the State Chamber of Commerce, the Silver Windmill award from the Montana Farm Bureau for each legislative session served. I am currently serving as the Vice Chairperson of the Education Interim Committee and served as the Vice Chairman of the Education Committee during the last legislative session.  These experiences can only benefit Great Falls, Cascade County and Montana.

Two of the top challenges facing our state and community are affordable housing and economic development:

The affordable housing issue does not have a “silver bullet” solution.  I believe the legislature will need to work with MACO and cities to review zoning regulations.  I also believe that supply issues and work force shortages have to be addressed.

Economic development is critical to Cascade County and Great Falls.  Ultimately, County Commissioners and the City Commission have final say on new industry; however, the legislature needs to continue to work to reduce regulations and create a more welcoming climate for new businesses. Continued progress on work force development is also an essential part of this process.  I will continue to work to create more expedient processes for agricultural producers to sell directly to consumers.