BILLINGS, Mont. – Top Republican leaders in Montana gathered in Billings today, just a week after former President Donald Trump’s stop in Bozeman. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson was the key speaker at the event, emphasizing the importance of preserving conservative values.
Attorney General Austin Knudsen, State Auditor Troy Downing, Congressman Ryan Zinke, and Governor Greg Gianforte – all on the ballot this November – were also in attendance and spoke in support of each other. They addressed familiar Republican priorities including securing the southern border, reducing government spending, and winning the majority on Capitol Hill.
When Speaker of the U.S. House Mike Johnson took the stage, he focused on the necessity of maintaining the foundational principles of the country.
“We are the strongest, most successful, most powerful, most benevolent nation that’s ever been, but it is not by happenstance, it’s because it’s built on these foundational principles,” Johnson said. “Now here’s the problem: right now, when I talk about that in a room full of conservatives and Republicans, they go “Yeah! That’s what we’re for!” but if I give that same list in Washington right now and we have some of our democratic colleagues in there – they’re not your father or grandfather democrats, okay? – These people are socialists. They’re progressives. They have disdain for the founding principles of the country.”
Cheryl Wing, one of the attendees of the rally, stressed the importance of voter education and participation.
“…So important for everybody to take part in knowing what’s the ground for our candidates, whether they be Democrat, Republican, or Independent. They are not the leaders, we are the leaders and in order for us to put our views and our values forward, we have to get out and vote for the people of our choice,” Wing said. “I am so proud to say that as a conservative person I find our run of Republicans just enlightening.”
You can watch a FULL video of all speeches from Montana Republican Representatives and U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson at today’s rally here.
With Election Day 80 days away, NonStop Local will continue to bring you the latest coverage on political events across Montana – on air and online.
