AGP Executive Report

Fuel Relief: Montana has suspended dyed-diesel enforcement for qualifying commercial vehicles hauling agricultural or timber goods. The 45-day order, effective through Nov. 23, is intended to ease costs for resource-dependent businesses. Trade Mission: Gov. Greg Gianforte met with Sri Lankan officials on Oct. 10 to discuss Montana agricultural exports, critical minerals, industrial hemp and security cooperation. Election 2026: Absentee ballots are out, with voters weighing a constitutional measure to keep judicial elections nonpartisan. Glendive voters will also decide whether to shrink the City Council and change its representation system. Agriculture: State officials warn that Palmer amaranth, a herbicide-resistant invasive weed, has been confirmed for the sixth time in Montana, in Cascade County. Senate Race: Democrat Alani Bankhead visited Lewistown, criticizing the cost of health care, housing, food and fuel as she campaigns against three opponents.

Congressional Race: Montana’s 1st District contest is drawing fresh attention: Democrat Sam Forstag says recent polls show a close race with Republican Aaron Flint, while a major super PAC has added $1.9 million to the fight. A recent opinion piece also challenged Forstag’s past lobbying record. Voting: Absentee ballots went out Oct. 9 ahead of the Nov. 3 election. Glendive voters will decide whether to shrink the City Council from eight members to six and whether to keep the four-ward system or add at-large seats. Livingston Film Dispute: Actor Danny Trejo says he is “pro-immigrant” and not “pro-ICE” amid backlash over his role in the Daily Wire film Pawn Shop, filmed in Livingston after local protests and a temporary production pause. Utilities: Montana’s Public Service Commission says its review of about 500 complaints over unusually high August power bills found no wrongdoing. Trade and Technology: Gov. Greg Gianforte’s India visit included talks on research ties in quantum technology and photonics, part of a broader mission to promote Montana’s high-tech, agriculture and aerospace sectors.

Election 2026: Montana absentee ballots began going out Oct. 9, with Yellowstone County mailing 83,000. Voters will also decide whether Dawson County races should drop party labels and whether to preserve nonpartisan judicial elections. Supreme Court Race: Flathead County judges Amy Eddy and Dan Wilson are making their case for the state’s high court; Eddy says she is rejecting party donations, while Wilson has accepted Republican Party contributions. Business and Trade: Gov. Greg Gianforte visited Boeing’s Bengaluru engineering center to pursue more Montana aerospace manufacturing and supply-chain work, part of a wider India trade mission promoting the state’s technology and agriculture sectors. Local Environment: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks says freshwater jellyfish found near Canyon Ferry Reservoir are introduced but pose little apparent risk to people or the ecosystem.

Election 2026: Absentee ballots for Montana voters who requested them begin mailing today, ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. In a Bozeman forum, Western District candidates Aaron Flint and Sam Forstag both named affordability as a priority but offered different approaches. Local Ballots: Big Sky-area voters will face different county questions, including Madison County proposals on its government structure, commission size and terms. Weed Control: Montana has opened grants of up to $75,000 for noxious-weed research, management and education; applications are due Jan. 7. Water and Wildlife: Construction near Ravalli will replace century-old irrigation infrastructure on the Jocko River while improving fish passage and habitat. Community Tensions: Filming of the ICE-themed movie Pawn Shop is continuing in Livingston after residents objected to road closures and a scene they said echoed Renee Good’s killing.

Trade and Technology: Gov. Greg Gianforte’s India visit included talks on partnerships in quantum computing, photonics, agriculture and bioscience. Public Lands: The Forest Service approved a 4,930-acre logging and fuels project along Highway 2, with work expected to start soon. Wild Montana Action Fund also released a voter guide covering public lands and key races. Election 2026: Montana’s Supreme Court struck down Republican-backed restrictions on citizen ballot initiatives, while candidates in the state Supreme Court race made their closing arguments. Business and Jobs: Janicki Industries named a former Malmstrom Air Force Base commander to lead its Great Falls campus, which the company says could support more than 1,000 jobs within five years. In Billings, a former Motel 6 is being revamped as the Signature Inn amid broader Midland Road development. Labor and Consumer Issues: A month-long strike at Sibanye-Stillwater ended with a wage deal. Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen also joined a multistate push for a federal investigation of TP-Link over alleged security risks and its China ties.

Trade Mission: Gov. Greg Gianforte is set to visit Sri Lanka after a Montana delegation’s India trip, seeking new markets for chickpeas, lentils and dry peas while expanding security ties. In India, the delegation also pursued partnerships in quantum technology and photonics. Crow Tribe Water: A bill updating the tribe’s water-rights settlement passed the U.S. Senate and now goes to the president, aiming to give the tribe more flexibility to advance water infrastructure. Mining Economy: Sibanye-Stillwater’s monthlong strike has ended in a wage deal, with more than 400 workers returning to the Columbus complex and Nye mine. State Law: Montana’s transportation department says dyed diesel remains illegal on public roads despite a federal executive order allowing broader use. Consumer Protection: Montana joined Iowa, Nebraska and Florida in suing TP-Link, alleging the router maker misled consumers about product security and its China ties. Ballot Access: The Montana Supreme Court struck down Republican-backed restrictions on citizen ballot initiatives, a consequential ruling ahead of November’s election.

Local Planning: Park County is holding four public listening sessions on a proposed process for citizen-led zoning districts, including a requirement that 60% of affected property owners support a petition. Election 2026: Independent candidate Michael Eisenhauer is challenging U.S. Rep. Troy Downing in Montana’s 2nd District, pitching bipartisan action. The Montana Supreme Court also struck down Republican-backed restrictions on citizen ballot initiatives. Data Center Dispute: Yellowstone County commissioners are seeking court review of a proposed initiative that would require voter approval for data centers, including Quantica’s planned project near Billings. Consumer Protection: Attorney General Austin Knudsen sued TP-Link, alleging the router maker misled consumers about privacy risks and its China ties. Rural Issues: Teton County renewed its sanitarian-services contract, while the library board covering Choteau, Fairfield and Dutton is seeking a higher replacement levy to meet rising costs. Palmer amaranth, a noxious weed, was also confirmed in a Pondera County field; officials urge continued scouting. Mining: A wage deal ended the strike affecting about 40% of Sibanye-Stillwater’s Montana workforce.

Montana courts & elections: The Montana Supreme Court struck down key GOP limits on citizen ballot initiatives, ruling the Legislature can set neutral rules but can’t burden the people’s constitutional initiative power. Local governance: Yellowstone County commissioners approved a lawsuit asking a district court to review the legality of a proposed county data-center ordinance that would require voter approval for new or expanded data centers. Public health: Fergus County confirmed a measles case and warned people exposed at an Amtrak stop in Malta and at Evergreen Wood Products in Moore; officials say symptoms could show into mid-October. Business & labor: Sibanye confirmed Montana mine and smelter workers ratified a new USW contract, ending a strike and setting wage increases through 2029. Politics & campaigns: Early voting for the US midterms is underway in parts of the country, with Montana starting early voting the day before; Montana’s Senate race also features an independent bid that aims to break the state’s party-label streak. Culture: Bozeman Film Festival will premiere a documentary on Western photographer Barbara Van Cleve Friday at the Ellen Theatre.

Montana Politics & Elections: Op-eds are driving the debate over I-194, with writers arguing it’s unconstitutional under the “unconstitutional conditions” idea and warning it could empower “dark money” while targeting local voices. Governor & Trade: Gov. Greg Gianforte kicked off Montana’s first trade mission to India, pitching technology, bioscience/photonics, and agriculture to potential investors and buyers. Montana Economy & Industry: The Montana Stockgrowers Association opened registration for its 142nd annual convention in Billings (Dec. 3–5), with a water symposium planned ahead of committee meetings. Housing & Community Governance: Big Sky leaders held a “State of the Community” event focused on how an unincorporated area coordinates growth, housing, and services through multiple districts and county commissions. Business & Jobs: Mitchell Technical College Foundation received a $945,000 boost to expand skilled trades training for rural energy work, including outreach and hands-on simulations. Local Watch: Cascade County voters face key midterm races, including a Senate District 11 contest in Great Falls.

Diesel Relief Push: President Trump signed an executive order in Nebraska easing limits on tax-free red-dyed diesel, arguing it will save farmers “millions” and lower costs ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms. Data Center Backlash: A new op-ed argues data centers can drive up power and water costs and raise privacy concerns, urging more local control. Wolf Policy Shift: A federal action under the Trump administration could make it easier for ranchers to hunt gray wolves, as Washington officials warn unlawful killings still threaten the population. Montana Supreme Court Race: Flathead County district judges Amy Eddy and Dan Wilson are vying for the open seat on the Montana Supreme Court, with the election set for this year. Public Health Watch: Montana health officials warn of measles risk as Fergus County confirms a case and notes potential exposures at a Malta Amtrak station and a Moore workplace. Local Government Ballots: Dawson County absentee ballots go out Friday, with voters deciding county and city government changes, including whether some offices move from partisan to nonpartisan elections. Rural Community Event: MSU Extension is hosting the Reimagining Rural Roadshow Oct. 7 in Winnett to connect rural leaders with resources and small-town projects. Film Permit Fight: Livingston suspended permits for a Daily Wire-linked ICE movie after residents complained about disruptions to local businesses and food access.

Montana Politics & Economy: Gov. Greg Gianforte is in Delhi pushing Montana pulse exports and new business ties, aiming to secure stable markets for peas, lentils, beans and chickpeas. Local Crime & Courts: In Great Falls, an infant died after a stabbing; police say the suspect’s charge was amended to homicide. Health & Fraud: A judge ordered former Bozeman mental health provider Kevin Patrick Maxwell to repay more than $2.3 million after Montana officials said Medicaid was billed for sessions done by unauthorized staff. Education & Workforce: Great Falls College MSU reported enrollment growth, with 1,614 students this fall—up 8.3%—citing affordability as a key driver. Sports: Glacier standout Hunter Daniels committed to play for the Montana Grizzlies. Community & Safety: Livingston temporarily halted filming after residents raised concerns about disruptions and effects tied to a production. National Legal Watch: Montana AG Jackley joined a coalition urging the U.S. Supreme Court to release frozen Taliban funds for 9/11 victims and families.

Montana Politics & Policy: Gov. Greg Gianforte is leading a delegation of more than 30 Montanans to India and Sri Lanka this week to expand trade, education, and business ties, with a spotlight on Montana pulse crops like chickpeas and lentils. Local Governance: Livingston temporarily suspended filming for Daily Wire’s pro-ICE movie “Pawn Shop” after residents and the city’s food bank complained about disruptions, lack of notice, and safety concerns. State Economy & Cost of Living: A new national analysis says public four-year colleges are often not affordable even with aid—only about one in three are within reach, with gaps driven by tuition plus emergency costs. Education & Access: A separate review of used-car rules found 11 states require a bill of sale for ordinary private sales, while others vary by situation; notary requirements also differ widely. Community & Environment: Billings high school students joined a “Ride for Their Lives” bike event advocating for a cleaner environment, drawing more than 60 riders. Sports (Montana ties): Montana State’s loss to Idaho followed a major officiating controversy, while Montana-area fans also watched FCS action and conference results.

Livingston Film Permit Fight: Livingston’s city commission temporarily suspended Daily Wire’s pro-ICE movie “Pawn Shop” after residents complained about disruptions to businesses and the food bank, plus alleged stunt and closure-notice issues; the commission will revisit the permit Monday. Montana Politics & Courts: A Montana-led coalition urged the U.S. Supreme Court to take up Maine’s 72-hour gun-purchase waiting period, arguing it violates the Second Amendment even after background checks. State Economy & Business: Gov. Greg Gianforte and the Montana Chamber will host the Big Sky, Bright Future Economic Summit Oct. 15 in Bozeman, focusing on technology innovation and jobs. Local Culture: Glendive’s 100-year-old grain silo got a mural upgrade funded through the state Commerce tourism grant, aiming to pull travelers into downtown. Sports: South Dakota State rolled Illinois State 31-14, a result that could boost Montana State’s national standing after its loss to Idaho.

Montana Voting Rights: A Montana court blocked HB 719’s birthdate verification rule for absentee ballots, after thousands of mail votes were rejected last year—an early win for disability advocates. Gun Policy: Montana AG Austin Knudsen joined a 24-state coalition urging the U.S. Supreme Court to review Maine’s 72-hour gun-purchase waiting period, arguing it violates the Second Amendment even after background checks. Montana Economy & Trade: Gov. Greg Gianforte leads a 30-member delegation to India and Sri Lanka to court business and education partnerships, highlighting Montana pulses as a key export. Wildlife & Science: In Glacier National Park, Montana-led bat research is helping track a deadly disease moving toward the park’s borders. Real Estate: The Northwest Montana Association of Realtors honored top performers, including Realtor of the Year Tricia Brisendine. Sports: Idaho stunned No. 1 Montana State on ESPN, ending the Bobcats’ 19-game winning streak. Business: Farm Bureau Insurance of Idaho completed its Mountain West acquisition, expanding coverage across the region.

Montana Politics: Montana court blocks HB 719’s birthdate verification for absentee ballots, a win for voters with disabilities after nearly 3,000 mail ballots were rejected last year. State Government: Gov. Greg Gianforte leads a 30-member delegation to India and Sri Lanka to pursue business deals and expand education partnerships. Public Safety/Justice: A Laurel woman, Dezarae Sky Nicodemous, pleads not guilty to allegations of child sex abuse, sexual assault, and possession of child sex abuse material; bond set at $300,000. Infrastructure & Economy: Gianforte taps Larry Flynn to lead the Montana Department of Transportation, replacing Chris Dorrington. Education & Workforce: MSU-Northern selected for about $2.5 million over five years to strengthen student success and career pathways. Business: TJ Maxx opens new stores in 2026, including one in Montana, while the company says only a few locations closed. Sports: Montana State’s 19-game winning streak ends after a last-second Idaho upset in Moscow, a nationally televised thriller.

Midterms Watch: New polling shows President Donald Trump is underwater in 39 states one month before the Nov. 3 midterms, with his net approval at -26 nationally and every major battleground state negative—raising pressure on GOP turnout and messaging. Montana Politics: Planned Parenthood Action Fund and Democratic Senate candidate Alani Bankhead trade competing accounts over whether she completed the endorsement process. Border & Campaign Trail: In Whitefish, GOP House candidate Aaron Flint held a campaign event supporting Border Patrol, arguing for more Homeland Security funding for immigration enforcement. State Government: Gov. Greg Gianforte named Larry Flynn to lead the Montana Department of Transportation after Chris Dorrington’s Oct. 1 departure. Public Safety: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks rejected a petition that would have required hunters to carry bear spray in grizzly habitat. Local Courts: Flathead County Attorney Travis Ahner is the sole applicant for a District Court seat, setting up a governor’s appointment process. Community & Culture: Red Lodge is hosting an Indigenous Arts & Culture Festival and is also seeking public input on a tourism development strategy.