by Rep. Kathy Love, HD 85

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We all know the phrase “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” but there’s an even bigger danger here in Montana: Democrats in Republican clothing. Though Montana voters sent a conservative majority to Helena, a small faction of self-identified Republicans abandoned their colleagues and handed power over to Democrats, enabling a massive tax shift and growing government.

While Democrat leaders celebrated the session as a success, Republicans started working to ensure real conservative policies get passed in 2027. Now, the fake Republicans who empowered the Democrat minority are attempting to play victim.

One of them, Rep. David Bedey, wrote an article about “discord” in the Montana Republican Party (MTGOP). In reality, the only discord is coming from the likes of Bedey and swamp boss Llew Jones. Instead of watering down conservative principles and fracturing the Republican majority, they should just be honest with voters and run as Democrats or Independents.

Bedey claims the MTGOP is no longer a “big tent” party, having supposedly been limited to a “right-wing” definition of conservatism. Why does Bedey object to a right-wing version of conservatism, and how does he think the Republican base defines itself? Would he prefer a left-wing conservatism? As always, the MTGOP welcomes anyone with a genuine commitment to lower taxes, limited government, and stronger families.

Bedey also complained about being asked to complete a simple questionnaire sent to all self-declared Republican candidates. The prompts were straightforward, asking candidates about issues like the role of government, when human life begins, and how to lower property taxes. These questions get to the heart of fundamental differences between conservatives and liberals.

Although Bedey admitted that such questions matter to his voters, he nevertheless refused to respond, claiming that answers could be used to “purge” the party. Why exactly does Bedey think giving honest answers would result in his departure from the party? Voters can draw their own conclusions.

The article concludes with a desperate attempt to reframe the situation as a “people vs. the party” situation, rather than what it really is: fake Republicans undermining the will of the grassroots Republican base. Bedey seems to arrogantly believe that the platform of the party he campaigns under — and the voters that support it — are beneath him.

Bedey missed the mark. Political parties are built on shared principles and policy priorities. Voters have every right to decide whether he consistently represents those principles and advances those policies.

Lincoln once cautioned: “Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.” Republican voters are right to stand firm in questioning whether a person who allies with Democrats and attacks their colleagues has, in fact, put their feet in the right place.

Kathy Love is a representative of the Montana House for District 85. She is also a candidate for Senate District 43.