hunting, fishing, grazing and recreation while ensuring they’re managed responsibly. Decisions about Montana land should involve Montanans, not just bureaucrats in D.C. How do you balance the demands of public service with your personal life? I won’t pretend it’s easy. Public service, especially at the federal level, is demanding. You’re traveling constantly, your phone never stops ringing, and the issues don’t take weekends off. But balance is important, and it’s something I work at every day. For me, it starts with remembering who I’m doing this for. My family keeps me grounded. When I’m back in Montana — whether it’s in Whitefish, Kalispell or somewhere in between — I try to unplug and just be home. That might mean getting outside, spending time on the water or sitting down for a meal without checking my phone every five minutes. I also believe in staying connected to the state. Washington can be a bubble, and it’s easy to lose perspective if you’re not careful. Coming home, talking to folks at the coffee shop, visiting local businesses and attending community events remind me why the work matters. It’s not about headlines; it’s about real people and real lives. The military taught me time management and focus, and those skills help. When you’re clear about your priorities, you make time for what matters most. What message would you like to give to Montana auto dealers? I would like to express my gratitude. Auto dealers are the backbone of communities across Montana. You’re employers, sponsors of local teams and events, and trusted partners for families making one of the biggest purchases of their lives. The local dealership is more than a business — it’s part of the community fabric. I know the past few years haven’t been easy. Supply chain issues, regulatory uncertainty and rising costs have created real challenges. My message is this: I hear you, and I’m working to make sure Washington understands what those challenges look like on the ground in Montana. We need policies that support small and family-owned businesses, not bury them in paperwork. That means reasonable regulations, fair tax policy and trade rules that don’t put American dealers at a disadvantage. It also means investing in infrastructure so vehicles — and customers — can move efficiently across a big state like ours. I’d also encourage dealers to stay engaged. Your voice matters. When you tell your story — about workforce needs, financing challenges or consumer demand — it helps shape better policy. My door is always open, and I value that input. Montana works when we work together. Whether you’re selling pickups in Havre or SUVs in Bozeman, you’re helping keep Montana moving. I’m proud to represent you, and I’ll keep fighting to make sure you can keep doing what you do best. 14 MONTANA AUTO DEALER
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==