We are collecting responses from candidates for the 2024 Primary Elections to provide information for voters. Each candidate was limited to 200 words per question. Responses have been edited only to remove political attacks. The following are the unedited responses:
What is your full name as it will appear on ballots?
Ric Holden
What is your age?
62 years
Where do you live?
Rural Dawson County- Glendive MT- ranch location
What is your education background?
Graduated from Absarokee High School- 1980, Graduated from Montana State University – 1984. Major degree: Business Management, Double Minor – Business Finance, Business Marketing, concentration- Economics, Graduated with Honors
Please list your current and previous occupations.
Current occupation: farmer/rancher for 33 years, part-time insurance adjuster
Previous occupations: Assistant Mgr. Kmart Corporation, carpenter, land surveyor, Beekeeper.
What motivated you to seek a seat in the U.S. House?
I served in the Montana State Senate and was term limited. The crisis at the southern border and the lack of representation in the House Agriculture committee for Montana were key factors in my decision.
What, if anything, should Congress do to ease impacts of inflation and cost of living in Montana?Â
Congress must address inflation and high interest rates by allowing the use of fossil fuels like oil and coal. Utilizing our natural resources will boost the economy and reduce reliance on foreign energy sources.
Yes, or no, do you support a federal ban on abortion?Â
I support leaving abortion laws to the states and endorse Right To Life organizations. Congress should not intervene in this matter.
What changes, if any, should be made to the way elections and campaigns are funded?Â
Current campaign fund laws need thorough understanding before new regulations are considered. Lobby groups’ donation limits need adjustment.
What, if anything, should Congress do to improve the nation’s immigration laws and security at the southern border?Â
Congress should close the border until a new immigration policy is negotiated. Chain immigration and illegal border crossings must be addressed to strengthen security.
What should be the top priorities when managing public land?
Public land should be managed for multiple uses including recreation, grazing, timber production, and mining while prioritizing public access.
What, if anything, should Congress do to address climate change?
Focusing on pollution control and environmental cleanup rather than climate change is crucial. Keeping our environment clean for future generations is key.
What, if anything, should Congress do to ensure Social Security and Medicare benefits meet the needs of older adults?Â
Protecting Social Security benefits and ensuring meaningful Medicare payments are essential. Avoid cutting benefits or increasing the age requirements for seniors.
What, if anything, should the federal government do to address law enforcement challenges on American Indian reservations? Should Congress increase/decrease/leave unchanged funding for law enforcement in tribal communities?
Tribal governments should decide law enforcement policies on reservations. Congress should not intervene further and let tribes manage their own security and funding.
What, if anything, would you do if elected to build trust in Congress?
My approach is to bring Montana common sense to congressional discussions, focus on integrity and honesty, and work towards bipartisan solutions. Studying bills thoroughly and fostering respectful relationships with colleagues are my priorities.
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