The Montana governor’s race between Democrat Ryan Busse and Republican incumbent Greg Gianforte has taken a contentious turn, with both campaigns accusing each other of financial improprieties. Busse alleges that Gianforte funneled over $1 million to his campaign manager’s companies, while the Montana GOP claims that Busse allocated campaign funds to his wife’s communications company in violation of campaign finance laws. Both candidates deny the allegations and have filed complaints with the Commissioner of Political Practices.
Busse’s campaign accuses Gianforte of making secret pass-through payments to his campaign manager’s companies, The Political Company and Ultra Graphics, for consulting and sign printing services. The campaign also questions the source of Gianforte’s campaign contributions, suggesting they may have been raised illegally. Meanwhile, the GOP complaint against Busse alleges that his campaign improperly paid his wife’s communications company, Aspen Communications, for consulting services, violating laws against using surplus funds for personal benefit.
The allegations and counter-claims in the Montana governor’s race highlight the intense competition between Busse and Gianforte. Both campaigns are vying for voter support while also facing scrutiny over their financial practices. The Commissioner of Political Practices will determine whether to launch a formal investigation into the complaints filed by both candidates, adding a new layer of complexity to an already closely watched political race.
