Ryan Busse

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Ryan Busse completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Busse's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI’m a Montanan who wants my kids to grow up the way I did – with opportunity, freedom, and a sense of responsibility. Right now, the Montana we know and love is being sold to billionaires and wealthy corporations by people like Ryan Zinke – he’s giving them tax breaks while making our lives harder. I am running for Congress to fight for the people who make this state great. This election is about choosing a new path, and I’m asking you to join me – this is literally the fight of our lives.\r\nIt’s time to stand up to the out-of-state billionaires and the wealthy corporations. It’s time we had a congressman who fights for real Montanans.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Healthcare. In a nation where Republicans give billionaires tax breaks to take their friends on weekend rocket rides into space for fun, it’s not too much to ask that all of us down here on earth have accessible, affordable, high-quality healthcare. Instead, the Republican majority has done the opposite by increasing ACA costs for tens of thousands of Montanans and drastically weakening Medicaid, which will force closures to our rural hospitals and disproportionately harm Native communities.</li><li>Affordability. This isn’t just a talking point — it’s everything. It means fighting tariffs that drive up costs, taking on monopolies like the big meatpackers, lowering healthcare costs, expanding access to childcare, cracking down on unfair bank fees, and holding drug companies accountable for sky-high prices. It means showing up every single day and fighting for Montanans in every policy debate.</li><li>Public lands &amp; conservation. This is personal to me. I’ve devoted much of my life to fighting for our public lands. Republicans like Zinke spend their lives doing the work of giant corporations or voting with the radicals dismantling these places. Republicans have repeatedly called to sell or transfer our public lands; it’s clearly stated in their party platform. I will never waver in the fight to protect roadless areas, clean water, and national parks. I’ll advocate for increased public access, including corner crossings. I know that public lands are critical to Montanans’ lives and livelihoods, and it’s not too much to demand that your congressman acts, votes, and fights like it.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-398891-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading1-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-398891-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-398891-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-398891-2026-04-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tHealthcare, affordability, conservation &amp; public lands, and accountability.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Ryan Busse completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Busse's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAlong with my running mate Raph Graybill, who’s a proven defender of Montana’s Constitution, I’m running to get your Montana back. I’ve always stood up for the things I love and believe in. I’m a former Republican. But when the Bush Administration threatened public land in Montana, I stood up to my own party to fight—successfully—to protect that land. I stood up to extremism in my own firearms industry. Now, as a moderate Democrat, I’m standing up to a Montana changing for the worse—a Montana that’s become unaffordable, less free, more divided and less accessible over the past three-and-a-half years. I’m deeply concerned about the dangerous direction of our state, and I believe now more than ever, Montanans need a governor who is one of them. I’ve spent most of my professional career as a successful businessman—as a top executive for a major firearms company. But business experience is hardly a sole qualification to serve as Montana’s governor. Stronger qualifications are my record of leadership, my straight-shooting, my lifelong love of the outdoors, and my history of standing up for what’s right for Montana. I was raised on a ranch in rural America. I grew up understanding the value of a dollar, and of a hard day’s work. I’m not afraid of speaking the truth, or of speaking truth to power.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Making Montana affordable again. This includes fixing the current property tax mess—lowering record hikes on residential properties that have unfairly burdened homeowners and renters while unfairly benefiting the wealthy and corporations. It includes genuinely fixing Montana’s housing crisis, which has been exacerbated by the record property tax increases that have saddled ordinary families. It includes funding public schools, addressing Montana's unacceptable teacher shortage and serving the public servants who keep our public schools running. It also includes ensuring that law enforcement officers, public school teachers and nurses can enjoy, live in and make good livings in Montana.</li><li>Rebuilding state agencies and departments that have been severely damaged by harmful ideologies, incompetent leaders and dangerous priorities over the past three-and-a-half years. This includes the Department of Human Health and Services, which has overseen the removal of nearly 133,000 Montanans from life-saving Medicaid health care services. It includes restoring the Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks back to the premier agency for protecting public land and managing public wildlife it once was. It also includes improving the working relationships between the State and county/municipal governments. I will also restore the government-to-government relationships the State of Montana should have with Indigenous Nations.</li><li>Protecting freedom, especially a woman’s Constitutional right to make whatever private decisions are best for her health and her family and her future—including the right to abortion and the right to decide whether or when to have a family—without interference from any government or politician.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading1-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tEconomic health (including fair taxation, housing, and small businesses), public education, health care, public land and water, hunting/fishing and wildlife management, climate, and strong government-to-government relationships with Indigenous Nations.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading2-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTeddy Roosevelt. He changed political convention and established a public lands system that remains the envy of the world to this day. And he was not afraid to buck his own party.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading3-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI invite voters to read my 2021 memoir, Gunfight: My Battle Against the Industry That Radicalized America (PublicAffairs/Hachette).\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading4-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Governor of Montana must understand that serving as Governor is not a hobby for some bored billionaire, but rather a sacred responsibility to serve all People of Montana equally. The Governor must embrace transparency, honesty and accessibility. The Governor must listen to all perspectives and lead by example, with hard work and deep knowledge of the State, its history, its values and its residents. The Governor must respect the Montana Constitution, the Legislature, the Free Press and an independent judiciary. The Governor must also embrace hard work.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading5-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI shoot straight and speak my mind. I'm not afraid of any fight that's important. I listen to all perspectives (I've got good friends from all political persuasions). I follow good advice and reject bad advice. I read and stay up-to-date on the issues. I'm curious about the world. I love my family. I've got a strong moral compass, and I've got a powerful work ethic developed from a lifetime of ranch/farm work and a successful career in the firearms industry..\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading6-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibilities of the Governor of Montana include: to honor the Montana Constitution, to serve all Montanans equally--no matter their health, wealth, age, gender, identity, community or geographic location. The Governor must lead by example with hard work, transparency, integrity and responsibility, and to respect public education, fiscal responsibility, public land, clean air and water. The Governor must not impose religious beliefs on public policy, and must understand the needs, concerns and challenges of ordinary families.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading7-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tLike so many other Montanans who care about our state, I want to leave Montana a better place for my two sons--and their children, and their children's children.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading8-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI remember the Iran hostage crisis and the Farmers March On Washington.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading9-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tFirst job was working on my family's ranch and farm as a kid. Had that job, working for my dad, for my entire childhood.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading10-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Road (Cormac McCarthy), because it distills the essence of a father’s existence into its simplest form.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading11-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tn/a\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading12-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tProbably something by Counting Crows or Pearl Jam.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading13-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI struggle with seeing things and places I love be influenced by too much extremism. In my experience: The gun industry, and the current leadership of Montana.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading14-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tA governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean do you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Governor may be the Chief Executive, but that person must never operate in a vacuum, away from the realities of ordinary Montanans, and away from transparency, as our current governor does. While this is a critical leadership position, the Governor of Montana must also understand his or her role in a balanced government where an independent Legislature and an independent judiciary are equal players that all serve and represent the People and their laws.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading15-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tGovernors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAll of the responsibilities of the Governor of Montana are important. Chief among them, in my mind, include: 1) Commander in chief of the Montana National Guard and the Montana Air National Guard, 2) Lead advocate for strong economic polices, fair taxes, affordable and available housing, fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget, 3) lead champion of the Montana Constitution, 4) lead champion of Montana values, including the right to access public land, and the freedom of health care, 5) Veto-er of any unconstitutional laws passed by the Legislature, and 6) Lead ambassador to Tribal Nations and their sovereign governments.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading16-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDifferent states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMontana's Constitution requires our state to pass and execute a balanced budget. As Governor, I will work closely with the Legislature -- Republicans, Democrats and Independents -- to achieve that in a way that best represents the people of our state while honoring fiscal responsibility.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading17-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIn most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would approach this power very judiciously.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading18-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAn ideal relationship is one that respects the ideologies and perspectives of lawmakers tasked with making policies, while also holding the line for Montana values and what's allowed under the Montana Constitution. This requires a respectful working relationship between the Executive and Legislative Branches, as previous governors have done before Montana's current governor.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading19-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you love most about your state?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWhere do I begin? I love that Montana made me a better person. I love that my neighbors, who happen to have different political views than me, still understand that being good neighbors doesn't require us to have the same beliefs. I love that I get to call it home. I love Montana's wild lands and the fact we can live, work and play in them. I love our public schools. I love the people who have made our state better through pubic service.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading20-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAffordability. Under the current administration, Montana has become the most expensive it's ever been, without any of the visionary ideas or policies needed to protect affordability. We must build an economy that's good for small businesses, public servants, public school students and educators, and family farms and ranchers. I also believe the climate crisis will and must take center stage over the next decade. It is an issue that will impact our greatest industries (especially our recreation economy and family agriculture), our businesses and our future.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading21-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tn/a\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading22-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tUnder what circumstances should the governor of your state be able to use emergency powers?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would not hesitate to use emergency powers in the name of protecting Montana or the security of its people, or the viability and safety of its communities, or the strength and reliability of our infrastructure, or the viability of our economy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading23-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Montana Federation of Public Employees, Montana Conservation Voters, National Organization of Women, Former Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading24-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe government transparency and accountability are fundamental Montana values that are written into the Montana Constitution and are not negotiable. The current Governor of Montana does not share this value.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-203557-2024-05-07\" id=\"heading25-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-203557-2024-05-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading25-203557-2024-05-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-203557-2024-05-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI support the current ballot initiative process, which affords ordinary citizens an important ability to change the polices and directions of our state--as long as they are lawful under the Montana Constitution.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nRyan Busse completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Busse's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I’m a Montanan who wants my kids to grow up the way I did – with opportunity, freedom, and a sense of responsibility. Right now, the Montana we know and love is being sold to billionaires and wealthy corporations by people like Ryan Zinke – he’s giving them tax breaks while making our lives harder. I am running for Congress to fight for the people who make this state great. This election is about choosing a new path, and I’m asking you to join me – this is literally the fight of our lives.\r\nIt’s time to stand up to the out-of-state billionaires and the wealthy corporations. It’s time we had a congressman who fights for real Montanans. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Healthcare. In a nation where Republicans give billionaires tax breaks to take their friends on weekend rocket rides into space for fun, it’s not too much to ask that all of us down here on earth have accessible, affordable, high-quality healthcare. Instead, the Republican majority has done the opposite by increasing ACA costs for tens of thousands of Montanans and drastically weakening Medicaid, which will force closures to our rural hospitals and disproportionately harm Native communities. Affordability. This isn’t just a talking point — it’s everything. It means fighting tariffs that drive up costs, taking on monopolies like the big meatpackers, lowering healthcare costs, expanding access to childcare, cracking down on unfair bank fees, and holding drug companies accountable for sky-high prices. It means showing up every single day and fighting for Montanans in every policy debate. Public lands & conservation. This is personal to me. I’ve devoted much of my life to fighting for our public lands. Republicans like Zinke spend their lives doing the work of giant corporations or voting with the radicals dismantling these places. Republicans have repeatedly called to sell or transfer our public lands; it’s clearly stated in their party platform. I will never waver in the fight to protect roadless areas, clean water, and national parks. I’ll advocate for increased public access, including corner crossings. I know that public lands are critical to Montanans’ lives and livelihoods, and it’s not too much to demand that your congressman acts, votes, and fights like it. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Healthcare, affordability, conservation & public lands, and accountability.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\n\nRyan Busse completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Busse's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Along with my running mate Raph Graybill, who’s a proven defender of Montana’s Constitution, I’m running to get your Montana back. I’ve always stood up for the things I love and believe in. I’m a former Republican. But when the Bush Administration threatened public land in Montana, I stood up to my own party to fight—successfully—to protect that land. I stood up to extremism in my own firearms industry. Now, as a moderate Democrat, I’m standing up to a Montana changing for the worse—a Montana that’s become unaffordable, less free, more divided and less accessible over the past three-and-a-half years. I’m deeply concerned about the dangerous direction of our state, and I believe now more than ever, Montanans need a governor who is one of them. I’ve spent most of my professional career as a successful businessman—as a top executive for a major firearms company. But business experience is hardly a sole qualification to serve as Montana’s governor. Stronger qualifications are my record of leadership, my straight-shooting, my lifelong love of the outdoors, and my history of standing up for what’s right for Montana. I was raised on a ranch in rural America. I grew up understanding the value of a dollar, and of a hard day’s work. I’m not afraid of speaking the truth, or of speaking truth to power. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Making Montana affordable again. This includes fixing the current property tax mess—lowering record hikes on residential properties that have unfairly burdened homeowners and renters while unfairly benefiting the wealthy and corporations. It includes genuinely fixing Montana’s housing crisis, which has been exacerbated by the record property tax increases that have saddled ordinary families. It includes funding public schools, addressing Montana's unacceptable teacher shortage and serving the public servants who keep our public schools running. It also includes ensuring that law enforcement officers, public school teachers and nurses can enjoy, live in and make good livings in Montana. Rebuilding state agencies and departments that have been severely damaged by harmful ideologies, incompetent leaders and dangerous priorities over the past three-and-a-half years. This includes the Department of Human Health and Services, which has overseen the removal of nearly 133,000 Montanans from life-saving Medicaid health care services. It includes restoring the Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks back to the premier agency for protecting public land and managing public wildlife it once was. It also includes improving the working relationships between the State and county/municipal governments. I will also restore the government-to-government relationships the State of Montana should have with Indigenous Nations. Protecting freedom, especially a woman’s Constitutional right to make whatever private decisions are best for her health and her family and her future—including the right to abortion and the right to decide whether or when to have a family—without interference from any government or politician. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Economic health (including fair taxation, housing, and small businesses), public education, health care, public land and water, hunting/fishing and wildlife management, climate, and strong government-to-government relationships with Indigenous Nations. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Teddy Roosevelt. He changed political convention and established a public lands system that remains the envy of the world to this day. And he was not afraid to buck his own party. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? I invite voters to read my 2021 memoir, Gunfight: My Battle Against the Industry That Radicalized America (PublicAffairs/Hachette). What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? The Governor of Montana must understand that serving as Governor is not a hobby for some bored billionaire, but rather a sacred responsibility to serve all People of Montana equally. The Governor must embrace transparency, honesty and accessibility. The Governor must listen to all perspectives and lead by example, with hard work and deep knowledge of the State, its history, its values and its residents. The Governor must respect the Montana Constitution, the Legislature, the Free Press and an independent judiciary. The Governor must also embrace hard work. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I shoot straight and speak my mind. I'm not afraid of any fight that's important. I listen to all perspectives (I've got good friends from all political persuasions). I follow good advice and reject bad advice. I read and stay up-to-date on the issues. I'm curious about the world. I love my family. I've got a strong moral compass, and I've got a powerful work ethic developed from a lifetime of ranch/farm work and a successful career in the firearms industry.. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities of the Governor of Montana include: to honor the Montana Constitution, to serve all Montanans equally--no matter their health, wealth, age, gender, identity, community or geographic location. The Governor must lead by example with hard work, transparency, integrity and responsibility, and to respect public education, fiscal responsibility, public land, clean air and water. The Governor must not impose religious beliefs on public policy, and must understand the needs, concerns and challenges of ordinary families. What legacy would you like to leave? Like so many other Montanans who care about our state, I want to leave Montana a better place for my two sons--and their children, and their children's children. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? I remember the Iran hostage crisis and the Farmers March On Washington. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? First job was working on my family's ranch and farm as a kid. Had that job, working for my dad, for my entire childhood. What is your favorite book? Why? The Road (Cormac McCarthy), because it distills the essence of a father’s existence into its simplest form. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? n/a What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Probably something by Counting Crows or Pearl Jam. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I struggle with seeing things and places I love be influenced by too much extremism. In my experience: The gun industry, and the current leadership of Montana. A governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean do you? The Governor may be the Chief Executive, but that person must never operate in a vacuum, away from the realities of ordinary Montanans, and away from transparency, as our current governor does. While this is a critical leadership position, the Governor of Montana must also understand his or her role in a balanced government where an independent Legislature and an independent judiciary are equal players that all serve and represent the People and their laws. Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state? All of the responsibilities of the Governor of Montana are important. Chief among them, in my mind, include: 1) Commander in chief of the Montana National Guard and the Montana Air National Guard, 2) Lead advocate for strong economic polices, fair taxes, affordable and available housing, fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget, 3) lead champion of the Montana Constitution, 4) lead champion of Montana values, including the right to access public land, and the freedom of health care, 5) Veto-er of any unconstitutional laws passed by the Legislature, and 6) Lead ambassador to Tribal Nations and their sovereign governments. Different states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state? Montana's Constitution requires our state to pass and execute a balanced budget. As Governor, I will work closely with the Legislature -- Republicans, Democrats and Independents -- to achieve that in a way that best represents the people of our state while honoring fiscal responsibility. In most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power? I would approach this power very judiciously. What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature? An ideal relationship is one that respects the ideologies and perspectives of lawmakers tasked with making policies, while also holding the line for Montana values and what's allowed under the Montana Constitution. This requires a respectful working relationship between the Executive and Legislative Branches, as previous governors have done before Montana's current governor. What do you love most about your state? Where do I begin? I love that Montana made me a better person. I love that my neighbors, who happen to have different political views than me, still understand that being good neighbors doesn't require us to have the same beliefs. I love that I get to call it home. I love Montana's wild lands and the fact we can live, work and play in them. I love our public schools. I love the people who have made our state better through pubic service. What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade? Affordability. Under the current administration, Montana has become the most expensive it's ever been, without any of the visionary ideas or policies needed to protect affordability. We must build an economy that's good for small businesses, public servants, public school students and educators, and family farms and ranchers. I also believe the climate crisis will and must take center stage over the next decade. It is an issue that will impact our greatest industries (especially our recreation economy and family agriculture), our businesses and our future. Tell us your favorite joke. n/a Under what circumstances should the governor of your state be able to use emergency powers? I would not hesitate to use emergency powers in the name of protecting Montana or the security of its people, or the viability and safety of its communities, or the strength and reliability of our infrastructure, or the viability of our economy. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? The Montana Federation of Public Employees, Montana Conservation Voters, National Organization of Women, Former Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer. What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? I believe government transparency and accountability are fundamental Montana values that are written into the Montana Constitution and are not negotiable. The current Governor of Montana does not share this value. Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider? I support the current ballot initiative process, which affords ordinary citizens an important ability to change the polices and directions of our state--as long as they are lawful under the Montana Constitution.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Busse’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p><b><big><big>RYAN'S VALUES</big></big></b><br/><br/>\n</p><p><br/>\n<b><big>CLIMATE/ENVIRONMENT</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan knows the reality of the climate crisis isn’t debatable and will do everything in his power to ensure a liveable world for future generations. Ryan watched every minute of 2023’s historic Held v. Montana trial in person. The lawsuit holds the State of Montana accountable to our Constitution’s guaranteed right of a “clean and healthful environment,” which Ryan will honor and uphold as Governor.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>DEMOCRACY</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan believes in majority rule, free and fair elections, and the right of all eligible citizens to vote without difficulty, confusion or harassment. He believes the leaders of the modern Republican Party, including Greg Gianforte, are actively trying to undermine Democracy and to replace it with authoritarianism. American Democracy itself is on the ballot in 2024.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>FREEDOM OF CHOICE</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan is an unapologetic defender of the freedom of health care and reproductive choice, and of Montana’s constitutional right to privacy. He believes no politician has any right to make private health care decisions for women, including whether to have an abortion. If elected to a second term, Montanans can expect Greg Gianforte to strip the guaranteed right to privacy from Montana’s Constitution.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>GUNS</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan spent more than 25 years as a senior sales executive of a major firearms company. He is a responsible gun owner and collector, and he believes in the Second Amendment right for all responsible Americans to own and protect their families with firearms. Ryan’s memoir, Gunfight, details his opposition to those who use guns to threaten or intimidate. His book also details his opposition to gun industry marketing practices which encourage violence and radicalization, because those actions put innocent people in danger and jeopardize all of our rights as Americans.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>ORGANIZED LABOR</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan strongly believes in the power of organized labor and wants to grow organized labor in Montana. He will always advocate for union labor and the right of labor unions to bargain for better pay, fair benefits, and safe working conditions–in power plants, mines, construction sites, schools, police and fire departments. Ryan staunchly opposes — and will veto — so-called “right to work” legislation and believes taxpayer-funded building and infrastructure work should be provided by union labor.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>PUBLIC EDUCATION</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan and his wife Sara are the products of public schools, as are their children. Public schools are the heart of rural communities, and Ryan believes all students should have access to public education no matter where they live. Unlike Greg Gianforte, Ryan strongly opposes using taxpayer money to fund private and religious charter schools—which threatens the viability of rural communities. Ryan also supports public school teachers, and will work closely with them to ensure fair pay, fair benefits, safe working conditions and pride in their essential work.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>PUBLIC LANDS</big></b>\n</p><p>Access to Montana’s abundant public land is part of Ryan’s very livelihood. In fact, protecting the Badger Two Medicine from drilling is what ultimately drew Ryan into political activism and away from the Republican Party. An avid hunter, hiker and angler, Ryan strongly opposes any effort to limit access, to privatize or sell public lands, or to transfer management of federal public lands to states. Greg Gianforte sued Montanans to keep them off of their publicly owned land–the banks of the East Gallatin River.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>SMALL BUSINESS</big></b>\n</p><p>As a former business executive, Ryan knows what it takes to build a business and to prosper in Montana. As governor, he will embrace fair tax structures, better housing conditions, strong public and secondary education, reliable infrastructure and access to public lands—all of which lend to a strong business environment.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>TAXES</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan believes corporations and the wealthy should pay their fair share in taxes. In 2023 Greg Gianforte significantly jacked up property taxes on Montana homeowners in order to give tax breaks to fellow billionaires and millionaires, and to profitable corporations. Unlike Gianforte, Ryan has also always opposed a statewide sales tax, which would disproportionately hurt working families.<br/><br/>\n</p><p><b><big>TRIBAL NATIONS</big></b>\n</p><p>Ryan understands and honors the importance of working government-to-government with sovereign Tribal Nations, with open-mindedness, and with respect for and attention to the unique needs, cultures, languages and traditions of Indigenous People in Montana. As Governor, he will ensure his administration is adequately represented by Indigenous People.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_4-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-4\">[4]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—Ryan Busse’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-5\"><a href=\"#cite_note-5\">[5]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Busse’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ RYAN'S VALUES CLIMATE/ENVIRONMENT Ryan knows the reality of the climate crisis isn’t debatable and will do everything in his power to ensure a liveable world for future generations. Ryan watched every minute of 2023’s historic Held v. Montana trial in person. The lawsuit holds the State of Montana accountable to our Constitution’s guaranteed right of a “clean and healthful environment,” which Ryan will honor and uphold as Governor. DEMOCRACY Ryan believes in majority rule, free and fair elections, and the right of all eligible citizens to vote without difficulty, confusion or harassment. He believes the leaders of the modern Republican Party, including Greg Gianforte, are actively trying to undermine Democracy and to replace it with authoritarianism. American Democracy itself is on the ballot in 2024. FREEDOM OF CHOICE Ryan is an unapologetic defender of the freedom of health care and reproductive choice, and of Montana’s constitutional right to privacy. He believes no politician has any right to make private health care decisions for women, including whether to have an abortion. If elected to a second term, Montanans can expect Greg Gianforte to strip the guaranteed right to privacy from Montana’s Constitution. GUNS Ryan spent more than 25 years as a senior sales executive of a major firearms company. He is a responsible gun owner and collector, and he believes in the Second Amendment right for all responsible Americans to own and protect their families with firearms. Ryan’s memoir, Gunfight, details his opposition to those who use guns to threaten or intimidate. His book also details his opposition to gun industry marketing practices which encourage violence and radicalization, because those actions put innocent people in danger and jeopardize all of our rights as Americans. ORGANIZED LABOR Ryan strongly believes in the power of organized labor and wants to grow organized labor in Montana. He will always advocate for union labor and the right of labor unions to bargain for better pay, fair benefits, and safe working conditions–in power plants, mines, construction sites, schools, police and fire departments. Ryan staunchly opposes — and will veto — so-called “right to work” legislation and believes taxpayer-funded building and infrastructure work should be provided by union labor. PUBLIC EDUCATION Ryan and his wife Sara are the products of public schools, as are their children. Public schools are the heart of rural communities, and Ryan believes all students should have access to public education no matter where they live. Unlike Greg Gianforte, Ryan strongly opposes using taxpayer money to fund private and religious charter schools—which threatens the viability of rural communities. Ryan also supports public school teachers, and will work closely with them to ensure fair pay, fair benefits, safe working conditions and pride in their essential work. PUBLIC LANDS Access to Montana’s abundant public land is part of Ryan’s very livelihood. In fact, protecting the Badger Two Medicine from drilling is what ultimately drew Ryan into political activism and away from the Republican Party. An avid hunter, hiker and angler, Ryan strongly opposes any effort to limit access, to privatize or sell public lands, or to transfer management of federal public lands to states. Greg Gianforte sued Montanans to keep them off of their publicly owned land–the banks of the East Gallatin River. SMALL BUSINESS As a former business executive, Ryan knows what it takes to build a business and to prosper in Montana. As governor, he will embrace fair tax structures, better housing conditions, strong public and secondary education, reliable infrastructure and access to public lands—all of which lend to a strong business environment. TAXES Ryan believes corporations and the wealthy should pay their fair share in taxes. In 2023 Greg Gianforte significantly jacked up property taxes on Montana homeowners in order to give tax breaks to fellow billionaires and millionaires, and to profitable corporations. Unlike Gianforte, Ryan has also always opposed a statewide sales tax, which would disproportionately hurt working families. TRIBAL NATIONS Ryan understands and honors the importance of working government-to-government with sovereign Tribal Nations, with open-mindedness, and with respect for and attention to the unique needs, cultures, languages and traditions of Indigenous People in Montana. As Governor, he will ensure his administration is adequately represented by Indigenous People. [4] ” —Ryan Busse’s campaign website (2024) [5]"}]