Currently facing criticism is Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen, who is alleged to have potentially violated campaign finance laws.
The controversy arose from a recording made at a fundraiser where Knudsen can be heard saying, “I do technically have a primary. However, he is a young man who I asked to run against me because our campaign laws are ridiculous…”
The “young man” in question is Logan Olson, the Daniels County Attorney, whose filing fee was reportedly covered by a long-time donor of Knudsen.
Knudsen went on in the recording to explain that an agreement was in place allowing him to have Olson run, which, in turn, enables him to raise more funds for his campaign. He hinted that his opponent might eventually drop out of the race and support Knudsen.
Based on the recording, it appears that these actions were taken to increase funds for Knudsen’s campaign. Montana’s campaign finance laws impose a limit of $790 per person for donations without a primary opponent. The Commissioner of Political Practices, Montana’s campaign finance oversight agency, is currently investigating complaints filed by the Montana Democratic Party alleging an agreement between the two parties.
In response to inquiries, a senior advisor to Knudsen’s team claimed they are fully compliant with the law and expressed confidence that the Commissioner will dismiss the “frivolous” complaint. Knudsen’s campaign manager also suggested that the complaint should be dismissed outright.
