Blue Bench Podcast
Gaby Krevat and Jorgia Hawthorne
Join us weekly as we unpack and demystify the chaos and excitement that is the Montana Legislative Session. We'll spotlight important bills, interview lawmakers and stakeholders, and give you the top-lines you need to know to understand the news out of Helena and to hold your lawmakers accountable.
Episodes
No Time For Neutral: Gianforte's New Tax Scam
Jorgia and Andy return to the pod to discuss Gov. Gianforte's plan to move Montana to a flat income tax. Problem is, most middle class families already pay the 4.7% tax and won't see a penny of savings. Meanwhile, the wealthiest 20% of Montanans will receive 95% of the tax break. It opens the door to a sales tax or higher property taxes -- neither of which working Montanans can afford.The two also chat the latest on prices, artificial intelligence, and ways you can get involved in the last 45 days of the midterms.Sign up for a shift!montanademocrats.org/volunteermobilize.us/samformontana
No Time for Neutral: Trillions and Billions on A Pointless War
Jorgia and Andy break down the recently House-passed NDAA (spoiler: more money for the Iran war!), the SAVE America Act and the latest on the Trump war in the Middle East.They also break down how the federal government has placed Gov. Gianforte in charge of our grizzly bear management, while taking away protections for endangered species' habitat.Call the governor: 406-444-3111Check your voter registration: voterportal.mt.gov
No Time for Neutral: Platform Convention and Gianforte's Attack on Medicaid
Jorgia and Andy go through the highlights of the 2026 Montana Democrats Platform Convention! A two year moratorium on data centers, corner crossing, surveillance, water rights... and that's a drop in the bucket. Final platform live on montanademocrats.org soon!They also cover the newest requirements for Montana Medicaid. These strict requirements that will keep people from accessing healthcare were passed last year in the Big Beautiful Bill, but Gianforte is implementing them six months earlier than required. Gianforte is also refusing to implement a bipartisan provider rate increase for Medicaid. Under Republican leadership, Montana Medicaid is struggling. Call the Governor today (406-444-3111) and tell him to implement the provider rate increase!
No Time for Neutral: 2026 Democratic Primary
Andy and Jorgia break down everything you need to know heading into Election Day on June 2. How to cast your ballot, who's on your ballot... and how Republicans have made it harder to vote than years prior. Plus, dive in to the allegation that Seth Bodnar may have bribed Montana voters when gathering signatures.It is TOO LATE to mail your ballot. Drop it off in person at your county elections office or at an official ballot drop box. If you're voting in person, make sure to bring an ID. You can register to vote all the way through 8pm on June 2!
No Time for Neutral: Ballots, Subpoenas, and Your Weekend Plans
Jorgia and Andy go through the candidates you'll see on your primary ballot. Sign, date, print your birth year, and get those ballots in the mail by May 25th! Ballots must be received by the county election's office by 8pm on June 2.Plus, Democrats begin the subpoena process on Christi Jacobsen after she released Montana's sensitive voter information to the federal government. Stay tuned for more here.Montana Democrats will be at Bucking Horse Sale! Join us for free breakfast Friday, and catch the full schedule here.Pete Buttigieg will rally in Butte for the Montana Plan Sunday - more details at pete.montanaplan.org.
No Time for Neutral: Trump's Tax Day and MTGOP Suing... Themselves?
Jorgia and Andy break down how the Republican Big Beautiful Bill really meant a Long Brutal Tax Season for most Montanans. Congress still hasn't passed a War Powers Resolution -- although Montana Democrats (and 8 Republicans!) keep asking the Congressional delegation for answers. Plus, everything you need to know about the latest Republican firing circle... and what it means for your property taxes.
No Time for Neutral: Post-No Kings, DHS Shutdown, Family Farms
Did you attend No Kings last weekend? Jorgia and Andy lay out three easy steps you can take this week to help Democrats win in November. They also explain how Republicans rejected a shutdown deal... and then went on vacation. Also, Trump's war, tariffs - and well, presidency - is hurting Montana farmers and the numbers prove it.
No Time for Neutral: Montana's Whirlwind Week
Welcome back to No Time for Neutral! Andy and Jorgia recap Zinke dropping out, Sheehy breaking a Marine's arm, Daines ALSO dropping out, and Montana Democrats' annual get together. The pair also touches on executive malpractice: Trump's war in Iran and Gianforte's Capitol ban.It's primary season! Head to montanademocrats.org/candidates to find out more information about the Democratic candidates for MT-01, MT-02 and the Senate seat. Then head to montanademocrats.org/events to find a candidate forum near you to meet the candidates and ask questions!
No Time for Neutral: Investigating Helena, Passports, and Jeremy Carl
Jorgia and Andy break down the SAVE Act and why it threatens your right to vote - if you're married and changed your name, this is for you! The pair gets into Gov. Gianforte and AG Knudsen's latest hypocritical stunt (Spoiler: They're suing the city of Helena for not cooperating with ICE) and explain what's going on with Jeremy Carl, a white nationalist Montanan whose power can be traced back to three people -- Zinke, Gianforte, and Daines.
No Time for Neutral: Voter Info For Sale + DHS Funding Fight
Jorgia and Andy break down Secretary Jacobsen's latest move to cleanse Montana's voter rolls. She's providing confidential information like SSNs and driver's license numbers with the intent of removing "ineligible people" from the rolls. Check your voter registration and give her a call to let her know this won't slide: 406-444-2034.They also break down the appropriations fight in Congress, Democrats' demands to hold ICE accountable, and Montana Democrats' day of solidarity in Minneapolis. Plus, some statistics for your week!*NOTE: This episode was filmed prior to MTFP breaking the story that Secretary Jacobsen did in fact share Montanans' confidential voter information with the federal government -- their newest attempt at voter suppression. All speculation in this episode was made before this knowledge was public.
No Time for Neutral: Greenland, Funding the Government, and Postcards
Jorgia and Andy lay it out in the simplest of terms: Montanans don't want Greenland. And they don't want another government shutdown either. But yet, Montana's delegation is seemingly doing nothing on either front -- give them a call!Plus, more on the release of the Epstein Files (or lack thereof). They also break down the latest news on Secretary Jacobsen's "election security" postcard that cost taxpayers $197,000.
No Time for Neutral: ICE, ACA, and Zinke's Lies
Happy New Year, Montana! We hope you had a restful holiday season. Jorgia and Andy return from the break with the MT Dems statement on the tragic ICE-involved shooting in Minneapolis. They also discuss the Senate's war powers resolution and the House passing (finally) a resolution to extend ACA subsidies.Did you get a mailer from Ryan Zinke or Christi Jacobsen lately? We've got your fact check -- spoiler: they're lying.
No Time for Neutral: ACA Subsidy Vote + Farmer Bailout
Jorgia and Andy break down all you need to know about this week's ACA vote -- Republicans have had over 10 years to make another healthcare plan, and they STILL can't decide with three weeks until subsidies expire. Plus, Trump's latest announcement on a $12B bailout for farmers... which wouldn't be necessary if he recalled the tariffs. Bozeman! You have a representative to appoint. Gallatin County Commissioners will choose the next representative of HD 57, from the pool nominated by Gallatin County Dems. Support a candidate to the commissioners before they meet on the 16th!
No Time for Neutral: Electric Bills + Health Insurance
We hope you had a great Thanksgiving holiday. We've got your back for what happened while everyone was at dinner! Jorgia and Andy break down the results of the TN-07 election and what it might mean for Montana's 1st District. They also discuss the plan (or lack thereof, thanks Republicans) for ACA subsidies that expire at the end of the year. Plus, Governor Gianforte's latest photo op and how the PSC approved ANOTHER rate increase.
No Time for Neutral: Nominations, Resignations and Remembering Your Oath
Jorgia and Andy wish you the happiest of Thanksgivings! And if you still need a dose of politics this week, we've got you covered. Donald Trump has called for the execution of sitting members of Congress after reminding military members to remember their oath to the Constitution. And Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned? Plus, find out how the midterms are shaping up for Democrats.Sen. Steve Daines sits on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee. They will soon be hearing nomination appeals from Trump's nominee for BLM. Steve Pearce would be HORRIBLE for Montana public lands - Give Daines a call at 202-225-2651 and tell him to vote no.
No Time for Neutral: Trump's Epstein U-turn + Montana's PSC
Jorgia is joined by Aren, the data manager for the Montana Democratic Party! The two unpack Trump's complete flip on releasing the Epstein files and how the bill went through Congress... although the timing is making everyone a bit uncomfortable. Plus, the Montana Public Service commission is debating yet another increase for Northwestern Energy (for their fossil fuels plant). Don't working Montanans pay enough?
No Time for Neutral: Epstein's Emails and Ending the Shutdown
Jorgia and Andy explain how the government finally got re-opened - who, what, when, where and why. Plus, the pair get into the latest Epstein bombshell (AKA a set of emails largely incriminating Donald Trump). *Montana Democrats are still raising food and money to help our neighbors! Reach out to [email protected] for more information.
No Time for Neutral: Blue Wave Recap!
Jorgia and Andy debrief everything you need to know about this week's elections. Democrats won up and down the ballot across the country, including right here in Montana. Plus, you'll get their take on why the levies failed and the latest shutdown update.*Reach out to [email protected] to find out how to plug into your local food drive.
No Time for Neutral: Tariffs, SNAP and Election Day
Jorgia and Andy recap the president's latest spat with Canada, the resulting tariffs, and how this is yet another blow in a string of them for Montana farmers. They get into how SNAP is running dry, since Republicans refuse to negotiate healthcare prices. Plus, races they're watching for Election Day next week.*Don't forget to put your birth year on your ballot! It will be rejected without it. Thank a Republican for this new law.**Call the Governor and DEMAND he use contingency funds to fulfill SNAP payments in Montana for November. 406-444-3111
No Time for Neutral: Press Passes, Bailouts, and Beef
Jorgia and Andy recap Pete Hegseth's latest decisions to stifle freedom of the press and Trump's laundry list of taxpayer-funded side quests. Plus, Mike Johnson STILL has not sworn in Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, Republicans have had not one - but TWO - Nazi scandals, and how Trump's latest handout to Argentina will hurt Montana ranchers the most.*CALLING ALL CATS FANS: Missed your tickets to the last MSU home game of the year vs. UC Davis on November 15? Enter in Yellowstone County Democrats raffle for a chance to win: 2 tickets (Section 106, Row 2), game-day parking, and a hotel stay for two at the Element in Bozeman! Tickets can be purchased 1 for $25 or 3 for $60 at yellowstonedemocrats.org/raffle.
No Time for Neutral: Government Shutdown
Jorgie and Andy provide everything you need to know of how Republicans shut down the government. Refusing to negotiate, kicking almost 40 million Americans off healthcare... to name a few.
No Time for Neutral: Rules Changes, Free Speech, and ICE in MT
Jorgia and Andy return from the break! Montana Democrats were busy at convention this month - tune in for the new rule changes! The pair also consider what free speech looks like now in America, and recap the latest ICE detainment in Montana.Head to @flathead.democracy for more information on Luisa and Fergie.
Montana State Convention 101 - Join us Sept 13-14th in Livingston
Join the Montana Democratic Party for the 2025 State Convention Saturday, September 13th-14th!This week on the Blue Bench Podcast, interim executive director Justin Ailport and development director Tiffany Williams explain what happens at the convention and how you can join in the action.For more info, visit our website www.montanademocrats.org/2025convention
No Time for Neutral: Latin Words, Roadless Rules, and Medicare Cuts
Jorgia and Andy return to kick off the start of fall in Montana. Schools are back in session -- and so is Congress. The pair break down the effects of eliminating the de minimis tariff loophole (spoiler: it's expensive). They also explain the Medicare cuts Republicans DON'T want you to know about, and the latest Republican attack on 6.3 million acres of Montana public land.
Data Centers in Montana and NorthWestern Western Energy Merger with Black Hills - Featuring Anne Hedges from MEIC
This week on the Blue Bench Podcast, we dig into the rapid rise of data centers in Montana and what it means for our communities. Our special guest, Anne Hedges from MEIC, breaks down the environmental and economic impacts. Tune in for a timely conversation on the future of energy and water in our state.
UPDATE: How tariffs are impacting farmers in Montana with special guest Jason Boeshore
In this episode, we dive into how tariffs are affecting Montana farmers, from grain prices to the ripple effects across rural communities. Our guest, Jason Boeshore, manages the UGC grain elevator in Culbertson, MT, where he purchases grain from local farmers and provides services such as grain marketing. Jason is a proud member of the Montana Democratic Party board and is the chair of the Richland County Democrats.
No Time for Neutral: Redistricting, Mail Ballots, and Creme Brulee
Jorgia and Andy sit down to explain the two major ways Republicans are coming after your voting rights. Trump wants to eliminate mail-in ballots, which 60% of Montanans use. Texas and California are duking it out over gerrymandering, and they walk through the whole situation. Trump and Putin also dined on filet mignon and creme brulee - ending the summit with nothing while the war rages on. Make sure your voter registration is up to date at your current address! Don't let paperwork keep you from the polls - that's what Republicans are banking on.
No Time for Neutral: It's A Bad Week for Legal Precedent
Jorgia and Andy return for a recap of the Trump Administration's latest attacks on foundational legal precedent. He's called the National Guard to DC and federalized their police. They're officially seeking to overturn gay marriage at the Supreme Court. And the EPA is considering repealing their finding that greenhouse gases are harmful to public health - a finding that is crucial for progressive climate policy.Our hearts go out to the people of Anaconda, and especially the loved ones and families of the victims. This was a horrific tragedy and we are with you as you rebuild and recover.
Montana Democrats Town Hall
The Montana Democratic Party hosted a virtual town hall last week to discuss the statewide impacts of proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Democratic lawmakers and community stakeholders addressed the consequences the cuts will have on food security and access to healthcare, rural hospitals, indigenous communities, and reproductive care across the state of Montana.
Meet MDP's Interim Executive Director Justin Ailport
On this episode of the Blue Bench Podcast, we chat with the Montana Democratic Party’s Interim Executive Director Justin Ailport. We talk about his Montana roots, what drives him, and why organizing right now matters more than ever.
No Time for Neutral: Town Halls and Tariffs
Jorgia and Andy rally around the cowardice of Sen. Daines, Sen. Sheehy, Rep. Zinke, and Rep. Downing - after shutting down the House to protect a pedophile, they're now appearing to skip out on town halls again. Montana Democrats are hosting their own town hall, Thursday July 31 @ 6pm - RSVP at montanademocrats.org/townhall. The two also discuss Trump's insane trade war, his "deal" with the EU, and how back to school shopping is forcing parents to pinch pennies.
The Future of Medicaid in Montana with Senator Cora Neumann
The so-called Big Beautiful Bill will threaten access to health coverage for tens of thousands of Montanans in years to come. Now, Gianforte’s Department of Health and Human Services is trying to speed up the process, imposing work requirements and higher costs than the rest of the country. State Senator Cora Neumann from Bozeman sits down with us today to discuss. Join the resistance and leave public comment by Aug. 18th! LINK HERE: https://dphhs.mt.gov/1115DemonstrationWaiver/index
No Time for Neutral: Epstein, Montana Medicaid, and Public Radio
On this week's episode, Jorgia and Andy dive into the topic that has the whole country tuned in: the Epstein Files. We also explain how DPHHS is trying to kick Montanans off of Medicaid a year and a half earlier than necessary, and why cuts to public media are so detrimental to a rural state like ours. Contact DPHHS - [email protected] - Subject: HELP Demonstration WaiverSuggested body: DPHHS’s decision to rush a 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver is cruel, hasty, and threatens to kick 31,000 Montanans (including 4,000 kids) off of Medicaid expansion.After the passage of the federal budget bill, you immediately jumped to implement cost-sharing and work requirements (AKA kick Montanans off their coverage), a year and a half before you’re required to do so. Federal guidance will not even be available until June 2026.Rushing this decision will cost time, money - and potentially lives. Let’s wait for federal guidance, make a plan to keep working Montanans insured, and limit the damage done by federal Republicans.
The Governor's Veto Frenzy with Representative James Reavis
This week on The Blue Bench Podcast, we’re joined by special guest Representative James Reavis of Billings to break down some of the biggest vetoes from Governor Gianforte’s desk and what they mean for Montana families. We also dig into the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” and share tips on staying engaged and fired up through the summer months.
No Time for Neutral: ICE in Helena, Tribal Colleges, and Suing Donald Trump
Jorgia and Andy give a whirlwind recap of the last week in Montana politics. The two discuss the arrest of Christopher Martinez by ICE in Helena and the impact Trump's cuts to tribal colleges will have on Indigenous communities. To no one's surprise, the MTGOP is up to no good and their new chair is no role model. Also, the Held v. Montana kids are suing Donald Trump and AG Knudsen is getting in the middle of it (we think he's salty he keeps losing) - tune in now! After the passage of the Big, Ugly Bill, Montana faces a potential budget shortfall for SNAP. SNAP is a lifeline for over 80k Montanans, and 30k stand to lose their coverage in wake of these cuts. Call Governor Gianforte and demand he prioritize SNAP funding in the state budget. 406-444-3111
No Time for Neutral: An (Almost) Full Breakdown of the Big, Ugly Bill
Jorgia is joined by No Time for Neutral's new co-host: Andy Nelson! The two attempt to break down Trump's Big, Ugly, No Good, Very Bad Bill. It's a HUGE piece of legislation, with cuts to healthcare, education, and clean energy. The deficit goes up, billionaires make more money, and the rest of us get left out in the cold.A loving reminder from MDP: Take care of yourselves. Holding our delegation accountable is crucial right now, but this is a long fight. Burnout is real and we need you with us for the long haul! We recommend turning off your news notifications for a while, getting outside, and drinking a good cup of coffee.List of rural hospitals in Montana that may close due to the budget bill:Northeast Montana Healthcare (Poplar, MT)Northeast Montana Healthcare (Wolf Point, MT)Big Sky Medical Center (Big Sky, MT)Prairie Community Hospital (Terry, MT)Garfield County Health Center (Jordan, MT)Logan Health Cut Bank (Cut Bank, MT)Big Horn Hospital (Hardin, MT)Providence St. Joseph Medical Center (Polson, MT)
Keep Public Lands in Public Lands with Land Tawney
On this episode, we sit down with public lands champion Land Tawney. We talk about why protecting our public lands matters, how to take meaningful action, and the power of pressuring lawmakers to put people over profit. Don’t miss this one!
Reproductive Freedom with Nancy Keenan
This week we sit down with longtime advocate and leader Nancy Keenan to talk about the fight for reproductive freedom in a post-Roe America. From her years at NARAL Pro-Choice America to her work in her home state of Montana, Nancy shares lessons from the frontlines and how everyday people can be effective advocates during this critical moment.
No Time for Neutral: Gianforte's Vetoes
Jorgia and Shannon discuss Governor Gianforte's vetoes this session. He's vetoed anything from property tax relief for veterans to a bill holding his office accountable to the people. Tune in for the full rundown!
No Time for Neutral: No Kings, Public Lands, and Call Your Senators!
Jorgia and Shannon discuss the massive turnout at No Kings protests in Montana and the United States and what it might mean for the future. They also recap new updates in the Big Ugly Terrible Bill and talk about the tragedy in Minnesota - and why we need to come back together. Contact Sens. Daines and Sheehy to say NO to the reconciliation bill. Daines: DC: (202) 224-2651, Helena: (406) 443-3189 Sheehy: DC: (202) 224-2641, Helena: (406) 441-1069
Missoula Has Pride
This week on Blue Bench Podcast, Gaby and special co-host Andy Nelson, MDP’s Blue Bench Associate, sit down with Missoula Councilwoman Jennifer Savage. Earlier this month, Councilwoman Savage led the charge on a landmark resolution making the Pride flag an official city flag of Missoula, circumventing a law that bans the Pride flag from flying on public buildings. You don’t want to miss this episode!
No Time for Neutral: LA protests, Northwestern Energy, and... Hamilton?
On this week's No Time for Neutral, Shannon and Jorgia unpack the LA protests and Northwestern Energy's latest greed scheme. Shannon takes us back to school to learn about the veto process, and the two talk all things.. Hamilton (the musical, not the Founding Father, but him too.. technically)
No Time for Neutral: Messy Breakups, the Middle Class, and What's Next
This week on No Time for Neutral, we talk about the Elon–Trump breakup (spoiler: it's MESSY) and the newest Senate noise around the GOP’s “big beautiful bill”—but more importantly, we focus on what really matters: rebuilding the middle class and where Democrats go from here. Tune in for honest conversation, a few laughs, and a hopeful look at the road ahead for Democrats fighting for real progress.Contact Sens. Daines and Sheehy to say NO to the budget bill.Daines: DC: (202) 224-2651, Helena: (406) 443-3189Sheehy: DC: (202) 224-2641, Helena: (406) 441-1069
Democratic Politics in Rural America with DNC Chair Ken Martin
In this episode, we sit down with newly elected DNC Chair Ken Martin to talk about how Democrats can rebuild trust and regain ground in rural America—including right here in Montana. From from community organizing to healthcare access, Chair Martin shares his vision for reconnecting with rural voters.
Flathead Valley Immigrants Nervous Living in Trump's America
This week, we’re joined by Rebecca Miller and Johnny Ratka Skinner, Chair and board member of the Valley Neighbors of Flathead, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting immigrants to resources in the Flathead area, and equipping communities to provide resources for immigrants.Our guests discuss challenges facing the immigrant community in the Flathead Valley, including the recent arrest and detention of a Venezuelan man who was pulled over for a broken headlight. He was here legally. You don't want to miss this episode!
No Time for Neutral: Medicaid, Harvard, and a Veto Spree
In the latest episode of the Blue Bench's new segment, No Time for Neutral, Shannon and Jorgia recap the GOP budget: How will Medicaid cuts affect Montana? Why do Republicans keep stealing from the poor to give to the rich?They also talk higher education attacks, Governor Gianforte's latest vetoes, and Northwestern Energy's latest antics. There's also some good news too - finally!Call the PSC before June 9 at 406-444-6150 and tell them no more rate hikes for Northwestern Energy!
How Tariffs are Affecting Montana Farmers and Ranchers
Welcome to Season 2 of the Blue Bench Podcast. Now that the Legislative session is over, we're changing our focus to the national stage. Every week, we'll have interviews that help bring national news and issues home here to Montana. This week, we interviewed farmer and rancher from central Montana, Ben Peterson. Ben is on the board of the Farmers Union, Cattleman's Beef Board, and the Montana Democratic Party. Ben discusses everything from Trump's tariffs, to life as Democrat in rural Montana, to the proposed cuts to the USDA.
No Time for Neutral: Planes, Medicaid, and Due Process
There's no time for neutral because sitting this out isn't an option.Welcome to Blue Bench Season 2! We'll be splitting the podcast into two episodes so you get all the information you need - but don't worry, we're not getting rid of anything! In this season opener, Jorgia and Shannon recap the last week of politics and it's a doozy. They talk Trump's Qatari plane, habeas corpus, the GOP budget, and what's going on locally in Montana - and what you can do to protect your neighbors from the latest Republican attacks.Call Reps. Zinke and Downing ASAP and demand a no vote on the House GOP budget!Zinke: DC: (202) 225-5628, Missoula: (406) 317-0277Downing: DC: (202) 225-3211, Helena: (406) 502-1435
Blue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 16 -SEASON 1 FINALE
Join us for our final episode of Blue Bench Podcast Season One, where we’ve been covering the Montana Legislature since January. We close season one with our very first guest, Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers.Senator Flowers answers our lingering questions about the session and shares his parting words of wisdom to future leaders.Don't worry! The podcast isn't over! MDP will continue dropping weekly podcasts in your feed. Standby for some exciting announcements regarding new content!
Blue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 15
We're officially in the final stretch of the 2025 Legislative session. Today's talk of the town: property taxes, property taxes, and did I mention property taxes? Shannon breaks down property tax relief proposals and sits down with MFPE Executive Director Amanda Curtis to discuss labor and education.