As Montana’s 2026 primary election season heats up, internal divisions within the Republican Party are drawing increased attention—prompting Greg Gianforte to call for unity and active voter participation.
During a recent appearance on Voices of Montana, Gianforte addressed concerns about a tense and, at times, contentious GOP primary landscape. Reports of misleading campaign advertising, intra-party attacks, and even the use of AI-generated imagery have fueled unease among candidates and voters alike.
Governor Gianforte acknowledged the friction but framed it as part of a broader, long-standing reality in politics. “There are very few things new under the sun,” he said, noting that disagreements within parties are not uncommon. Still, he emphasized that ideological overlap among Republicans remains significant, even amid disputes over key issues such as property tax relief.
The governor cautioned against voter disengagement, urging Montanans to remain active in the primary process. “The thing people cannot do is throw up their hands and say, ‘I’m not voting,’” Gianforte said. “When you do that, you’ve given your voice to somebody else.” He highlighted that in many Montana districts, primary elections—set for early June—are often decisive in determining representation ahead of the 2027 legislative session.
Beyond campaign politics, the interview covered a range of policy priorities and statewide initiatives. Gianforte is currently in the midst of his sixth 56-county tour as governor, a long-running effort to connect directly with residents across Montana. This week’s focus is on eastern Montana communities, where the governor is meeting with farmers, educators, healthcare providers, and veterans.
Housing affordability and workforce development remain top concerns raised during these visits. Gianforte pointed to recent gains in home building permits and apprenticeship programs as signs of progress, while acknowledging that affordability challenges persist. “We’re getting the red tape out of the way,” he said, citing regulatory reforms and workforce training initiatives aimed at increasing housing supply.
The governor also discussed efforts to address homelessness and workforce participation, including proposed work requirements for certain public assistance programs. He framed these policies as pathways to economic independence, emphasizing job training and apprenticeship opportunities as key solutions.
Looking ahead to the 2027 legislative session, Gianforte outlined several priorities, including potential income tax reform, additional property tax adjustments, and continued deregulation efforts. He also highlighted emerging opportunities in energy development and data infrastructure, which he said could expand Montana’s tax base and support long-term growth.
As primary ballots reach voters, the governor’s message is clear: despite political tensions, civic participation remains essential.
