The Montana REALTORS® Political Action Committee plays a crucial role in supporting state legislators who align with our REALTOR® values. By endorsing candidates who champion the values that we embrace as an organization, we ensure that our voices are heard in the legislative process. These legislators understand the unique challenges facing our industry and recognize the importance of protecting private property rights for all Montanans. Their commitment to responsible land use regulations, market stability, and affordable housing is vital for fostering an environment where both REALTORS® and property and landowners can thrive.

 

Why Does Montana RPAC Endorse Candidates for the State Legislature?

Supporting candidates who share our values also strengthens the overall real estate community in Montana. It allows us to collaborate with lawmakers who genuinely prioritize the interests of private property owners and the real estate profession. When legislators understand and advocate for the rights of private property owners, it leads to more informed decision-making that ultimately benefits the overall state economy. By collaborating with these like-minded leaders, we can create a policy landscape that promotes growth, affordability, and the preservation of private property rights for future generations.

HB 296 is a good example of our efforts making a difference in the lives of REALTORS® in 2023. HB 296 helps protect REALTORS by limiting potential legal risks regarding disclosures of unknown property defects and conditions. The bill passed the House and Senate and was signed into law by Governor Gianforte in May of 2023.

Another good example of our efforts was HB 211. In the 2023 legislative session, MAR worked to help pass legislation that aimed to streamline and expedite the process for reviewing and approving subdivisions. By making the review process more efficient, the bill aimed to lower costs and complexity for developers and REALTORS involved in subdividing property. The bill also provided greater clarity and predictability for REALTORS® and developers on potential timelines and requirements for subdividing land.  By facilitating quicker approvals for subdivision projects, HB 211 helped support property development and housing supply, potentially increasing the availability of new properties on the market and potentially helping with the housing shortage. The bill was signed by the Governor in April of 2023. 

 

How Does Montana RPAC Endorse Candidates for the State Legislature?

Every two years, MAR's Government Affairs Committees and the REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC)—establish criteria for endorsements by thoroughly reviewing voting records. We focus on identifying those incumbent legislators who have consistently supported our interests or have taken the initiative to champion key issues for us. When these legislators demonstrate a commitment to our values, they become eligible for what we call an “early endorsement.” This means that no matter who may challenge them, their actions have shown they are true allies of our industry. While their opponents might have impressive backgrounds and ideas about housing and land use regulations, we believe that actions speak louder than words, which is why many incumbents receive early endorsements.

For candidates without a voting record or for those running for open seats, we have a thorough interview process. REALTORS® from the local boards sit down with these candidates to discuss housing-related issues exclusively. Based on their responses, we assess who is best positioned to advocate for our priorities, and that candidate receives our endorsement. It’s not always an easy decision; sometimes, we might endorse a candidate that some members view as a less favorable choice. While our primary focus remains steadfast on REALTOR® issues, we occasionally employ support strategies to build backing in key areas of the legislative process.

Navigating politics can be challenging, especially in today’s climate. That’s why we believe it’s essential to cultivate relationships with legislators on both sides of the partisan aisle who are willing to collaborate with us. Supporting candidates who align with our values is crucial; as we never know when we will need that extra vote in the House, Senate or Governor’s office.

 

United States Congressional Races

U.S. House District #1 - Aaron Flint

         U.S. House District #2 - Troy Downing              

 

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United States Senate

Kurt Alme

 

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Supreme Court

Dan Wilson

  

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State House    

HD 2 Tom Millett

HD 9  Steven C Kelly

HD 10  Terry Falk

HD 12 Tracey Sharp

 HD 14 Paul Fielder 

 HD 18 Bruce Gillespie

HD 20 Melissa Nikolakakos

HD 23 Eric Tilleman

HD 24 Steve Fitzpatrick

HD 25  Steve Gist

HD 26 Russ Miner

HD 27 Paul Tuss

HD 30  Morgan Thiel 

HD 33 Brandon Ler 

HD 34 Jerry Schillinger

HD 35  Gary Parry

HD 37 Shane Klakken

HD 39  Kerri Seekins Crowe 

HD 40 Mike Vinton 

HD43 Larry Brewster

HD 44  Katie Zolnikov

HD 48  Curtis Schomer

HD 51 Jodee Etchart

HD 60  Alanah Griffith

HD 62 Josh Seckinger

HD 67 Jedediah Hinkle 

 HD 70 Shannon Maness

HD 75 Mark Reinschmidt 

HD 76 Trish Schreiber

HD 78  Randy Gregg

HD 84 Roy Caldwell

HD 87 Terry Nelson

HD 88 Greg Overstree

HD 89  Mark Thane

 HD 97 Melody Cunningham

 

 

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  State Senate

 

SD 4 Amy Regier

SD 6 Mark Noland

SD 9 Llew Jones

SD 12 George Nikolakakos

SD 14 Eric Albus  

SD 18 Greg Kmetz

SD 22 Daniel Zolnikov

SD 25 Dennis Lenz 

SD 28 Forrest Mandeville

SD 32 Kelly Kortum

SD 34 Caleb Hinkle

SD 41 Erin Farris Olsen

SD 43 Dave Bedey

SD 49 Willis Curdy

    

 

For additional questions about RPAC or Candidate Endorsements, please contact Daniel Cox at daniel@montanarealtors.org or at 406-443-4032