Article Summary –
Candidates seeking seats in Montana’s Congress have addressed immigration and border management as a crucial issue in the campaign. Montana Free Press questioned candidates about their position on border issues, with many Republican candidates expressing strong criticism towards President Joe Biden’s administration and calling for the resumption of former President Donald Trump’s border wall construction efforts. Conversely, Democratic candidates generally called for less punitive changes to the nation’s immigration system, highlighting the need for a more humane and effective system.
The U.S.-Mexico border management is a top campaign issue for candidates seeking two Montana seats in Congress. In our 2024 Election Guide project, we asked candidates about their stand on the border issues, their responses are below.
QUESTION: Actions Congress should take on U.S.-Mexico border control?
EASTERN DISTRICT (MT-02) CANDIDATES
The district includes Billings, Great Falls, Helena, Havre, and Miles City. Following Rep. Matt Rosendale’s decision not to seek re-election, there’s no shortage of candidates vying for the open seat, striking aggressive postures on border issues, and critiquing President Joe Biden’s administration.
Elsie Arntzen
State superintendent of public instruction, Republican
“Improving national security along the border and reforming our immigration system is a top priority. Congress must secure the border by finishing the wall, reauthorize the Remain in Mexico policy put in place by President Trump and end ‘catch and release.'”
Kyle Austin
Billings pharmacist, Republican
“The U.S. needs to finish building the wall to help control immigration and pressure Mexico to assist in preventing immigration and drug trafficking.”
WESTERN DISTRICT (MT-01) CANDIDATES
The district includes Missoula, Bozeman, Kalispell, and Butte.
Ryan Zinke
Incumbent U.S. representative, Republican
“I just got back from a visit to the southern border and one thing is for sure — there is no border. Biden created this crisis. The answer is H.R. 2 — the Secure the Border Act.”
Mary Todd
Kalispell pastor, Republican
“Rebuild the wall. Fentanyl is pouring through our unprotected borders.”
Monica Tranel
Missoula attorney, Democrat
“Secure the border and make sure there is a legal process for immigration that works.”
—
Read More Montana News
