Bob Brown Oral History Project, 2005-2024

Patten discusses his work as a lobbyist in Montana during the 1960s. He also talks about working with Governor Tim Babcock. He reminisces about Governors Donald Nutter and Ted Schwinden and other lobbyists with whom he worked.

Delano talks about his career as a lobbyist and describes some of the other lobbyists he knew. He discusses various changes in Montana politics from the 1950s to 2005 including the 1972 Constitutional Convention, term limitations, and the role lobbyists play in Montana politics. He also describes working with various Montana governors and provides anecdotes about each one.

Shanahan, a former railway association lobbyist, provides various anecdotes about his time working with the legislature including former governors, important issues, watering holes, the Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company, many influential legislators, and his relationship with Wellington Rankin.

Haughey, a former legislator and a former lobbyist, describes the legislature in 1945 and onward, Anaconda lobbyists and hospitality room, governors and politicians, hunting trips with politicians, and sales tax reform and other political issues of his day.

O’Neil discusses how his career began in politics, various legislators who were influential, various important issues in the legislature, and influences of the Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company. He ends by describing his campaign for re-election.

McGarvey was a Democratic member of the Montana House of Representatives 1957-1959, a lawyer, and active in Montana public affairs. He discusses legislation he either supported or encountered in the House (education, occupational disease/silicosis/workers’ compensation, public utility districts), the Anaconda Company lobbyists and their influence in politics, his relationship with other Montana politicians, McCarthyist accusations against him, and suspected vote-buying by Montana corporations.

Robinson discusses his recollections of Montana governors whom he met while working as a lobbyist, the influences of the Montana Power Company and Anaconda Company on Montana politics, and various significant politicians. He provides anecdotes of his time working in politics and ends by detailing the various roles of a lobbyist.

McOmber describes his affiliation with the Farmer’s Union as a young politician, the effects of the Montana Power Company and the Anaconda Company on Montana politics, and his terms in the legislature. He details his relationships with various legislators, governors, and lobbyists. He ends by giving a description of the legislature’s procedures before and after the new 1972 Montana constitution.

Former lobbyist (Crippen) and attorney (Brown) for the Anaconda Company describe how they got connected with the Company, Crippen initially through his father-in-law and Brown after army service, law school and government work focused on labor relations. They recall experiences working for the Anaconda Company including reviewing and promoting Montana legislation, the Company’s hospitality room, relationships with legislators and other prominent figures, and other anecdotes of the time from 1955 through the 1970s.

Gunderson, a former Montana legislator, recalls being raised as a Democrat, the Farmers Union, the Farm Labor Coalition, the 1972 Constitutional Convention and its continuing impact, Anaconda Company influence, and various legislation. He describes his interactions with legislators, former governors, and his relationships with other Montana political figures.

Renders, a Montana lobbyist, public relations specialist, and journalist, describes his liberal political background, the personalities of politicians he has known in his career, the Anaconda Company’s involvement in state politics, control of the press in Montana, dynamics at the Great Falls Tribune, and advice for liberals of the future.

Nichols, a former Montana legislator, describes his career in Montana politics and the family influences that persuaded him to run for the legislature. He goes on to describe his relationships with various Montana governors, politicians, and lobbyists before moving into a description of the Anaconda Company’s heavy influence on Montana politics for many decades.

Himsl begins with his arrival in Kalispell, Montana, in 1945 and recalls his 60 years of community service including 24 years as a state legislator. He offers his impressions of and interactions with governors and legislators including Wellington D. Rankin and Governors Nutter, Aronson, and Babcock. Himsl includes anecdotes and discussions of issues including state sales tax and the Anaconda Company.

Murray, former Montana legislator and floor leader of the Constitutional Convention, explains how he became interested in politics and the influences on his choice of party affiliation. He recalls working with former Montana governors and their personalities, influential legislators, lobbyists. The interview ends with Murray’s explanation of his role in the Montana Constitutional Convention and the process of getting the new document adopted.

Gilluly begins with a discussion of his family’s experience in journalism and then discusses his experiences working for The Great Falls Tribune, the Missoulian, and the Ravalli Republican. He extensively addresses the issue of press control by the Anaconda Company. He talks about politicians he has known in Montana

Kolstad, former Montana legislator and lieutenant governor, reviews his time in politics in Montana including descriptions of influential legislators, issues, and lobbyists. He describes his campaign with Stan Stephens. Kolstad explains his involvement in national politics including relationships with Montana congressmen and Presidents Reagan, Bush Sr., and George W. Bush.

Poore, a Butte, Montana, attorney, discusses the interaction between the Anaconda Company and the city of Butte, Montana. He describes the Columbia Gardens Amusement Park. He discusses his relationship with the William A. Clark family (his wife’s grandfather was Francis Wharton, Clark’s “right-hand man”), the John Ryan family, the Cornelius Kelley family, and others. He talks about the Anaconda Company lobbyists and executives that he knew personally; his law practice in Butte and some of the cases he tried during the McCarthy era; and politicians he knew. He ends with comments on the relationship between the Anaconda Company, Montana Power, and Montana society.

Lahr, former Montana Power Company lobbyist, discusses the workings of the Montana Power Company during the 1960s up until the 1980s. He tells stories of interaction between former legislators, governors, and other lobbyists and subjects such as territorial integrity, the Constitutional Convention, relationship with the Anaconda Company, and history of the Montana Power Company, providing an in-depth review of working as a Montana Company lobbyist.

Babcock, former Montana governor, discusses his early political career, his relationship to and the death of Governor Don Nutter, his relationship with other local and national politicians (Forrest Anderson, Hugo Aronson, Dwight Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, Wellington Rankin, Mike Mansfield and others), and the influence of the Anaconda Company on Montana politics.

Anderson, Republican lawyer, oil lobbyist and Montana state legislator, discusses his involvement in state politics and his relationship with other state politicians, beginning with recollections of his father’s political career before turning to his own first congressional session in 1947. He also discusses some of the key issues during his terms in office such as the Yellowtail Dam controversy, gambling regulation, Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company political dealings, public utility districts, the formation of the Montana legislative council, sales tax, the 1972 Constitutional Convention, and coal and oil industry taxation. Anderson also describes the the mock congressional sessions that he organized in the 1950s and 1960s. Finally, Anderson notes changes in tenor in the state legislature from his early days to the present.

Pichette was a Northwestern Corporation executive, a Montana Democrat with a long career in politics and public service, and a former executive director of the Democratic Party in Montana. He describes working for Montana Congressmen Olson and Melcher in Washington, D.C.; organizing political campaigns for and general impressions of Montana politicians, including Governor Ted. Schwinden, for whom he worked; the 1972 Constitutional Convention; the coal severance tax; changes in the Democratic Party; electrical deregulation; and his experiences working for Montana Power and Northwestern Corporation.

Sheehy talks about his interest in politics at a young age and the political and social climate of Butte, Montana, when he was growing up. He describes Montana politicians he has known (Jerry O’Connell, Jim Murray, Wellington Rankin, Mike Mansfield, John Metcalf, Ted Schwinden, others). He talks about Anaconda lobbying techniques and personalities. He ends with a discussion of his time on the Supreme Court.

Bennett, a District judge and public servant, begins by discussing his childhood in Depression and drought era Scobey, Montana, mentioning the desperation that led to the election of communists in the 1930s. He talks about the rise of the Farmers Union in Montana and the business of farming in the state, the issue of press control by the Anaconda Company, his involvement in Lee Metcalf’s political campaigns, contrasts Metcalf and Mansfield, involvement in Forest Anderson’s campaign, and other Montana politicians he has known.

Lucas, a former legislator, describes how he became interested in politics and his political philosophy. He discusses the lobbyists, Montana governors and fellow legislators with whom he worked. He also provides anecdotes about various pieces of legislation during his 1962-1972 stint in the Montana Legislature.

Hawks, speaker of the Montana House of Representatives in 1961, discusses his first congressional race in 1948 and many of the politicians he served with, the influence of the Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company on state politics and the lobbyists who worked for them, the establishment of the prison ranch in Deer Lodge, the peyote bill, Yellowtail Dam bill, Montana Stock Growers Association, the Public Utility District bill, and Montana governors and other politicians he served with in the House

Leuthold provides his recollections of former governors such as Nutter, Babcock, Schwinden and influential legislators during his term in the Montana House of Representatives, 1950-1968. He also recalls his experience in the 1972 Montana Constitutional Convention.

Eskildsen explains his personal relationships with prominent Montana legislators, congressmen, and governors especially during his terms in the Montana House of Representatives from 1954 to 1964. He describes issues with the Montana State Penitentiary in Deer Lodge. He recalls his experience in the 1972 Montana Constitutional Convention and specific issues of the time.

Fraser Rosell, a former Montana legislator, describes influences leading to her party affiliation, her early legislative work, and relationships with other members of the Montana legislature. She recalls the trend in female interest in politics while she was in the legislature. She compares the new and old state constitutions.

Mathers, a former Montana legislator and Senate president, describes how he became interested in and involved with politics in Montana. He compares and contrasts the state government and parties of Texas and Montana and their influence over his party affiliation. He recalls partisan issues that were fought in the legislature including public utility districts, budget cuts, Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company influences, and the sales tax. He recalls strong legislators and governors, as well as his work on the Board of Regents for the state university system.

Smith, a former Montana legislator, describes his involvement on important legislation, the Wheat Commission, resolving the rural electricity issue by amending a previous bill, and participation in the Senate Finance Commission in Montana. He gives his impressions of former governors, legislators, and running for governor.

Aasheim, a former Montana legislator and delegate to the 1972 Montana Constitutional Convention, describes his initial interest in politics, his first campaign for the election to the House of Representatives in 1959, his first legislative session, and his experiences during the Montana Constitutional Convention. He discusses the various governors that he served with and his impressions of influential legislators.

Raised in Billings, Montana, Tidball, the first director of Montana Legislative Council, 1960s lawyer and lobbyist for the Anaconda Company, attended The University of Montana from 1949-1955, graduating with degrees in business and law. He discusses his work as the first director of the Montana Legislative Council, which attempted to make the legislative process more modern, functional and efficient. From there, he assesses legislators who stood out to him. Tidball began working as a lawyer and sometime-lobbyist for the Anaconda Company in 1965. He describes other Anaconda lawyers, lobbyists, and key company players, as well as lobbying strategies (including the use of a hospitality room). He finishes by describing some reasons for the waning power and influence of the company in the 1970s, the sale of the company to Atlantic Richfield Company, and the closing of the mine.

Rolfe, a former Montana legislator and conservative leader, discusses how he became interested in politics as a youth, his continued activity as a teenager and young adult, and finally his role at the Republican National Convention of 1975, where he sought to nominate Ronald Reagan for president. Rolfe discusses this convention and his views on Ronald Reagan at length.

Mockler, a former Montana legislator and lobbyist for the mining industry, describes his background in Wyoming and moves on to the effects of Montana and Wyoming’s coal taxes in 1975. Mockler details the effect of the coal tax on Montana’s coal business contracts, his relationship with Governor Schwinden and the “window of opportunity.” He ends with his opinion of coal bed methane development

Fjare, a former Montana legislator, begins by describing how he became interested in politics. He explains how the Anaconda Company’s support helped him get elected to the U.S. Congress in 1954. Later he describes how the Anaconda Company’s intense oversight and pressure led him to break off the relationship. Fjare discusses his relationships with Presidents Eisenhower, Nixon, and Ford. He describes his involvement with the Yellowtail Dam project and other major issues during his time in Congress

Mr. Galt is a state senator, president of state senate, and Republican national committeeman while Mrs. Galt was a young county attorney in Fergus County, active in Republican politics, and was the widow of Wellington Rankin. The couple discusses their families’ backgrounds in Montana politics and their own evolving political awareness and activity. Each gives their impressions of governors and legislators in Montana, as well as the role of the Anaconda Company in state politics. Louise talks extensively about the activities of her late husband, Wellington Rankin, attorney general, state Supreme Court justice, and brother of Jeannette Rankin.

Stephens is a broadcast journalist and recipient of the Edward R. Murrow Prize, state senator, and former Republican governor of Montana. An immigrant from Canada, Stephens begins the interview with a description of his career in broadcast journalism. In 1969, he was elected to the state senate and served for 16 years before running for governor, an office he held from 1989-1993. Other topics include his political campaigns and his tenure as governor, with reference to the 1972 Constitutional Convention, coal and sales tax, education (including vocational), lobbyists, budgetary issues, and Native American reservations and social issues. Stephens gives his impressions of a number of legislators, governors, lobbyists, and presidents.

Former Montana State Supreme Court Chief Justice Turnage describes his past involvement in law and his inspirations to run for public offices. He describes his time in the legislature, introduced bills, and ends by describing his work in the Montana State Supreme Court. He explains generally how cases are heard at the Supreme Court as well as specific incidents.

Towe, former Montana legislator, begins by telling various stories about the Montana Copper Kings and the Anaconda Company. This leads to his lengthy discussion on the development of the coal tax bill and the coal trust fund. He recollects various events and issues during his time in the legislature.

Frank, a former Montana legislator, describes issues in the legislature including rural electric co-ops and the Anaconda Company. He ends by describing his work in the Rural Electrification Association and the Farmers Union and Farmers Home Association and issues in agriculture.

Bishop, a former Montana legislator and Fish and Game commissioner, describes issues he encountered while he was with the Fish and Game. He recalls anecdotes during his earlier years as a Billings attorney and other influential lawyers. He describes his various campaigns for the legislature and for the Republican primary for governor. He ends by describing his relationships with previous governors and speculates on the future of Montana.

Lynch, a former Montana legislator, discusses his career in politics including the Anaconda Company, the Montana Power Company, his relationships with governors Forrest Anderson, Tom Judge, Stan Stephens, and other influential legislators, and issues of the time including sales tax, term limits, the Constitutional Convention, lobbyists, and foreign investments.

Schiltz, a former Montana legislator, describes the influence of the Montana Power Company and the Anaconda Company on Montana politics during the 1950s and his work at the Montana Constitutional Convention.

Ohs, former Lieutenant Governor, legislator, and FBI negotiator at the Freemen standoff provides an in depth look at his involvement as a negotiator during the Freemen standoff near Jordan, Montana, in 1996, the Freeman trial, and the aftermath.

Schwinden, a former Montana legislator and governor from 1981-1989, begins by describing his growing interest in politics during high school and his activity in Roosevelt County, Montana. He discusses the legislature and provides stories about his dealings with other former governors and legislators including Forrest Anderson, Tim Babcock, Tom Judge, and Stan Stephens. He offers his perspective on issues such as the Resource Indemnity Trust, university funding, and gerrymandering. He ends by describing how Montana has changed over a century and possibilities for the future.

Norman, a Montana legislator from 1970-1990, recalls growing up in Minnesota and the earliest political influences that led him to become a Democrat. He credits his first political interest and activity with interest in Minnesotan Gene McCarthy, a U.S. senator. He discusses the legislature and provides stories about his dealings with other former governors and legislators including Dorothy Bradley, Thomas Towe, Luke McKeon, Jim Murray (lobbyist), Forrest Anderson, Tom Judge, Ted Schwinden, and Stan Stephens. He offers his perspective on issues such as coal development, the coal tax, abortion and the future of Montana.

Judge, the Montana governor from 1972 to 1980, describes how he became interested in politics as a young man and his eventual election to the legislature. He describes the influence of the Anaconda Company and the Montana Power Company, coal development, the Federal Strip Mine Reclamation Act, and the Constitutional Convention. He explains his relationships with governors and legislators including Forrest Anderson, Tim Babcock, Ted Schwinden, Lee Metcalf, John Melcher, and Mike Mansfield. He ends with his opinion on Montana's future.

Murray, a former leader in Montana AFL/CIO and related labor unions, discusses his involvement with the AFL/CIO from 1968-1991, the labor movement in Montana, and worker’s rights. He discusses various influential leaders including Lee Metcalf, Mike Mansfield, Arnold Olsen, and Chet Blaylock

Eck, a member of the League of Women Voters, a 1972 Montana Constitutional Convention delegate, and Montana legislator for five terms, 1980-2000, explains the events that guided her interests in politics, her eventual membership and presidency of the Montana League of Women Voters and discusses issues backed by that organization. She discusses her experience in the Montana Senate, 1980-2000, and describes former political leaders such as Mike Mansfield, Lee Metcalf, Arnold Olsen, and various influential legislators. At the end of the interview, she gives a detailed account of her participation in the Montana Constitutional Convention.

Fagg, a former Montana legislator (1968-1984) of Billings, Montana, recalls his family’s political nature and that influence on his political philosophy, his involvement with the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and his eventual relationship with Congressman Jim Batten. He explains his initial reactions to being in the legislature, relationships with various legislators, and legislation for the environmental movement. Specific issues include the Hard Rock Mining Bill, a sales tax campaign, a proposed coal moratorium, and the League of Towns and Cities.

Lockrem, from Billings, Montana, is a former Montana legislator (1971-1981) and lobbyist for the Montana Contractors Association. He recalls experiences in the Marine Corp and working in a family construction business that peaked his interest in politics and running for the legislature. He details his relationships with former lobbyists, particularly from the Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company, and former Governor Tom Judge. He also explains the effect of single-member districts, implemented by the 1972 Constitutional Convention, on Yellowstone County politics. Other specifics include a proposed sales tax bill, the Anaconda Company, Governor Tom Judge, and natural resources.

Marks, of Helena, Montana, is a former state legislator of Jefferson County (1969-1989) and former Speaker of the House in Montana. He describes becoming interested in politics early and his affiliation with the Republican Party. He contrasts his campaign for election to the House of Representatives with today’s process and he describes his first impressions of the legislature and of influential politicians. He discusses territorial integrity, coal mining, the influence of the Anaconda Company and Montana Power Company, and his relationship with various lobbyists. Marks ends with his impressions of various Governors Judge, Anderson, Stephens, and Schwinden, and their administrations and the future of Montana.

Paynter, a former legislative fiscal analyst and deputy budget director, discusses her experiences with financial affairs in the Montana legislature over more than 25 years. She explains her fiscal responsibilities including budget preparation, tax increases, and revenue estimation. She compares the administrations of Governors Schwinden, Stephens, Racicot, Martz, and Schweitzer, and the general effectiveness of each.

Lewis, a former budget analyst and Montana legislator, describes his 40 year participation in politics including his work as budget director, campaign contributor, director of the Department of Administration, director of the State Board of Investments, and as a member of the Montana legislature where he served as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Lewis discusses the pros and cons of being a partisan politician and reflects on changing governmental trends in Montana. Lewis maintains some focus on Governors Judge, Schwinden, Stephens, Racicot and Martz; their agendas; and conflicts during various administrations.

Lynch, a former Montana legislator from Butte, Montana, discusses his family history and the events leading up to his work in Montana politics. He describes campaigning in Butte, his work on the House Appropriations Committee, the influence of the Montana Power Company and the Anaconda Company on Montana politics, and discusses governors that he served with including Tom Judge, Ted Schwinden, Stan Stephens, and Marc Racicot. He recalls other issues including a coal moratorium and term limits.

Mazurek, a former Montana State Senator and gubernatorial candidate, discusses his involvement in ASUM [Associated Students of the University of Montana] while attending The University of Montana-Missoula. He briefly discusses influential politicians through his years in the Montana Senate, the Montana Power Company and Anaconda Company’s role in Montana politics, various lobbyists, controversial bills, and past governors, Ted Schwinden and Stan Stephens.

Jergeson, a former Montana State senator, describes his over thirty years, beginning in the 1970s, in the Montana State Senate, mostly in terms of fellow politicians. He talks about Francis Bardanouve’s mentorship during the early part of his political career. He also reminisces about fellow legislators including Fred Van Valkenburg, John Mercer, Bruce Crippen and Governors Judge, Schwinden, Racicot, Stevens and Martz.

Halligan, a former Montana State Senator, lieutenant gubernatorial candidate and lobbyist, discusses his twenty years (1980-2000) serving in the Montana State Senate and why he became involved in politics. He talks about fellow legislators (Chet Blaylock, Jean Turnage, Francis Bardanouve, Bill Norman, Joe Mazurek, and Bruce Crippen) and lobbyists with whom he worked and reflects on Governors Schwinden, Stephens, Racicot, Martz and Schweitzer. He talks about the Montana Power Company’s influence and describes work on de-regulation, sales tax and term-limits and talks about his run for the lieutenant governorship with gubernatorial candidate Dorothy Bradley.

Van Valkenburg, a Missoula County County Attorney, former Montana State Senator, and former Montana State Senate Majority Leader, describes his Catholic upbringing and how that along with John Kennedy’s presidency inspired him to run for public office. He reminisces about his years as the Montana Senate’s Majority Leader and serving with Representatives Jean Turnage, Matt Himsl, Francis Bardanouve and others. He discusses working with Montana governors Tom Judge, Ted Schwinden, Stan Stephens, Marc Racicot. He recalls legislation like de-regulation and the coal tax.

Harrington, a former Montana state legislator and Montana Constitutional Convention delegate, discusses the Anaconda Company and its influence on Butte, mining operations, and Montana state politics. He describes deregulation of electricity in the state and Montana Power Company lobbyists. He also talks about the 1972 Montana Constitutional Convention and the changes made to the constitution that affected the Anaconda Company.

Bradley, a former Montana state legislator, and state gubernatorial candidate, describes the events that drew her to run for the Montana House of Representatives at the age of 23. She talks about being the only woman in the Montana House in 1971 and her introduction of the abortion bill in Montana. She discusses fellow legislators including John Hall, Dan Yardley, Ken Nordtvedt, Francis Bardanouve, and Mike Halligan. She recalls her environmental activism as a representative and her unsuccessful campaign for governor in 1992.

Kemmis, a former Montana state legislator and former Speaker of the Montana House of Representatives, reminisces about his family’s politics and his college years at Harvard and how they influenced him to run for public office. He talks about Montana governors Tom Judge and Ted Schwinden. He discusses different lobbyists with whom he worked and the role the Anaconda Company and the Montana Power Company played in Montana politics.

Thomas, a former Montana state senator and gubernatorial candidate, discusses his 20-plus years serving in the Montana State Legislature. He describes how his family’s involvement in politics encouraged him to become a politician. He briefly talks about fellow legislators including Elmer Severson, Bill Groff, Bob Marks, Jack Ramirez, and Bob Thoft. He also discusses his introduction of the deregulation bill and its effect on Montana’s economy.

Mercer, a former Montana state legislator and Speaker of the Montana House, describes his early experiences in the Montana House and fellow legislators including Dave Brown, Francis Bardanouve, Jack Ramirez, John Vincent, Hal Harper, Bob Thoft, John Harp, Fred Thomas and Fred Van Valkenburg. He talks about his leadership philosophy as Speaker and the role of the Republicans in the Montana Legislature during the 1990s. He also discusses governors Ted Schwinden, Marc Racicot, Stan Stephens, Judy Martz, and Brian Schweitzer.

Vincent, a former Montana state legislator and Speaker of the House, describes his interest in political science and how that influenced him to run for public office. He discusses his leadership roles in the Montana House of Representatives and Speaker of the House, Minority Leader, and Majority Whip. He talks about members of the House as well as Montana governors Stan Stephens, Ted Schwinden and Brian Schweitzer.

Hansen, a lobbyist for the Montana League of Cities and Towns, reminisces about growing up in Butte, Montana, during the 1940s and 1950s. Hansen discusses working for Montana Governor Forrest Anderson, describing the governor’s work style and vision for Montana state politics.

Crippen, a former Montana state senator, talks about his twenty years of service as a Montana state senator. He describes working with Montana governors Stan Stephens, Marc Racicot and Judy Martz. He also discusses his involvement in Marc Racicot’s gubernatorial campaign.

Parks, a former professional dancer and model, talks about her grandfather, former U. S. Senator Thomas Walsh. She discusses his career and the details surrounding his death. She also talks about her life as the wife of a naval officer and Mobile Oil employee.

Hoag talks about living on Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park. He reminisces about spending time with two Montana senators, Tom Walsh and Burton K. Wheeler, and their families.

Cobb, a former Montana state representative, discusses his introduction to politics and why he decided to run for the Montana State Legislature. He describes his years in the legislature and fellow legislators including Bob Marks, Chuck Swysgood, Leo Giaocometta, and John Mercer. He also talks about the different governors he served under including Judy Martz, Marc Racicot, and Stan Stephens. He finishes with speculation on the future on the Republican Party, the Tea Party and the Montana State Legislature.

Wheeler Scott, daughter of former U.S. Senator Burton K. Wheeler, discusses her father’s career, reputation, and her family’s views of and relationships with various politicians during the time. Scott describes what it was like to grow up as the daughter of a prominent Montana politician. She talks about some of her personal experiences attending Bryn Mawr College, visiting Gary Cooper in Hollywood, working for Senator Keating of New York, meeting Senator Mike Mansfield. She also tells various stories about her father. Scott discusses Burton K. Wheeler’s pacifism and his support for peace protesters during his political career his years of service. Scott also shares some of her father’s stories he used to tell, and some notable quotes from his interactions with President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Ringling discusses his grandfather, Alf T. Ringling, one of the five original brothers who started the Ringling Brothers Circus in Baraboo, Wisconsin, in 1884. He explains how the circus started, the merger with the Barnum and Bailey Circus, and how his family became ranchers near White Sulphur Springs, Montana. Ringling describes working for the circus after he graduated high school, serving in the military from 1942 to 1945, running the family ranch in Montana, and getting involved in Montana politics in 1952. Ringling reminisces about his time as a Montana State Representative and Senator from 1953 to 1959, and discusses several colleagues and some of the legislation he worked on during the time.

Frederica Wheeler Johnson reminisces about her grandfather, Burton K. Wheeler’s life and career as a United States senator from Montana, and later, lawyer, from the 1920s through 1970s. Wheeler Johnson recalls spending summers at the family’s cabin on Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, and her grandfather’s interactions with family and members of the Blackfeet Nation. She describes Burton K. Wheeler’s initial opposition to World War Two, his defeat for reelection in 1946, and his subsequent return to practicing law. She recalls meeting or interacting with various politicians with her grandfather, and discusses family stories related to her grandfather’s potential vice presidency under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, his defeat in 1946, and his political ideologies. Wheeler Johnson discusses her previous spouses, one the great-grandson of Thomas J. Walsh and another, John W. Snow, former United States Secretary of the Treasury, as well as discussing Senator Mike Mansfield and her grandfather’s similarities and differences.

Pat Williams remembers his childhood in Butte, Montana, and early tenure in the Montana state legislature in the mid-to-late 20th century. Williams recalls growing up working in his father’s restaurants in Butte, and the changing Butte culture from his childhood to the present. He discusses his first campaign, running to be a Montana legislator from Silver Bow County, and navigating Butte political scene. He describes his dealings with the Anaconda Copper Mining Company, and its complicated relationship with the people of Butte and of Montana. Williams discusses members of the legislature he admired, and legislation he supported or introduced early in his career.

Williams recalls serving as a representative from Butte, Montana, in the Montana legislature, and serving in the U.S. House as a representative from Montana from the 1960s through the 1990s. He discusses the Montana delegation from Butte and his own actions, as well as those of other Butte legislators in the Montana House. Williams recalls leaving the Montana legislature to work as a staffer for John Melcher in the U.S. House. He describes his return to Montana, working in education, his first, defeated bid for the U.S. House, and his subsequent successful bid and election. He discusses the various committees he worked on, and his interactions with other representatives like Morris Udall, Tip O’Neill, and Mike Lowry. He recalls particular legislation he pushed to pass, as well as his work on subjects like labor, wilderness, the National Endowment for the Arts, and Native American recognition.

Quilici recalls growing up in Butte, Montana, in the 20th century, and his tenure in the Montana House of Representatives during the latter half of the century. He discusses his Butte Italian and Swedish heritage, and his first run for office in 1970. Quilici describes members he served with in the Montana legislature, and various legislation he worked on, including his dealings with the Anaconda Copper Company. He discusses his philosophies on politics and partisanship, his involvement in the Justice Township incident near Jordan, Montana, and his thoughts on increasing polarization in United States politics.

Driscoll recounts highlights of his involvement in Montana government and politics as a labor union member and official, and a member of the Montana House of Representatives in the mid-to-late 20th century. He recalls his initial involvement in labor unions as a young construction worker, and his subsequent entrance into the Montana House of Representatives. Driscoll talks about many current and former members of the Montana AFL-CIO, and the state legislature. He discusses the Democratic Party’s transition in leadership from labor interests to environmental concerns, and the disappearance of major companies in Montana, like the Anaconda Copper Company and the Montana Power Company. Driscoll describes the increasing polarization in the Democratic and Republican parties, and his opinions on various politicians’ policies.

Hill discusses his work in Montana government and politics, and his tenure as Montana’s congressman in the United States House of Representatives during the latter half of the 20th century. He recalls his childhood in Minnesota, how his political identity developed during college, and his early career in insurance. He discusses his work as chairman of the Montana Republican Party, building Republican seats in the state legislature, and working with Republican candidates in the 1990s, especially Marc Racicot in his bid for governor. Hill shares his thought on various Montana politicians, and recounts his successful run for Montana’s representative in 1996. He discusses his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. politicians, and his views on populist politics in the United States.

Doherty describes his time serving in the Montana State Senate from 1993 to 2001. He talks about attending school to become an attorney, then working as one in Great Falls, Montana, his hometown, for a number of years before running for a seat in the Senate. He talks about his political influences and the support of his family and friends which helped him win his first election against Republican Jesse O’Hara. Doherty notes that his experience as an attorney was helpful during his political career and he recalls some of colleagues in the Senate, such as Dorothy Eck, Greg Jergeson, Francis Bardanouve, J.D. Lynch, and Mike Halligan, who inspired him as an incoming senator. He shares his opinions of the governors he served under including Ted Schwinden, Marc Racicot and Stan Stephens. Doherty also shares stories and anecdotes about serving with other Montana legislators including Denny Rehberg, Dorothy Bradley, and Pat Williams, noting that he considered Williams a mentor. He shares his concerns that in 2020 politicians seem less interested in compromise and working across the aisle. He also discusses his thoughts on term limits in the Montana Legislature and how that makes it difficult for legislators to develop long-term relationships which enable them to work more effectively for their constituents.

Fritz describes growing up during the World War II era, and how his political views were shaped by his father’s support of the Democrat Party. He notes that his father credited Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs for his continued employment during the Great Depression. Fritz discusses attending Dartmouth College for a degree in chemistry, then switching to the University of Montana (UM) for a degree in history. He talks about studying with Professor Jules Karlin at UM who employed the Socratic method of teaching. He discusses his doctoral dissertation on Congressional voting behavior during the War of 1812 and how he later taught the history of Montana and the West after Dr. K. Ross Toole died. He notes that this background influenced him to run for the Montana State House of Representatives in 1984 against Betty Haddon, after learning that Dan Kemmis would not run in his Missoula district again. Fritz recalls some of the big issues in the legislature on which he voted, such as the coal severance tax and allowing historic property to be substituted for inheritance taxes. He also expresses his admiration for some of his colleagues including Bob Thoft, Francis Bardanouve, and Dorothy Bradley.

Kleinkopf talks about being from Idaho, his education, as well as his move to Montana with his wife, a Montana native. He discusses working for Ted Schwinden as Assistant to the Commissioner when Schwinden was State Lands Commissioner. Kleinkopf summarizes working as a volunteer for Tom Judge when he was running for governor of Montana. He also recalls his work in the Judge administration on the new Montana Constitution in 1972, as well as traveling with Judge to President Nixon’s inauguration, also in 1972. Additional Montana politicians discussed include Big Ed Smith, who was the Republican running against Judge; and former governors Forrest Anderson, Ted Schwinden, and Stan Stephens. Kleinkopf’s recollections of members of Congress representing Montana are also included, consisting of: Mike Mansfield, Pat Williams, Lee Metcalf, and Max Baucus. And finally highlighted is Kleinkopf’s friendship with astronaut Gene Cernan.

Pettit talks about growing up in Utica, Montana. Pettit discusses chairing the Young Democrats while attending the University of Montana, and later earning a master’s degree at Washington University in St. Louis and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin. Pettit mentions his work for Lee Metcalf during Metcalf’s U.S. House and Senate service, as well as his work for Senator James Murray, and his extensive experience working for Governor Tom Judge. Also, Pettit discloses family relationships with Judge since they had married sisters. Other jobs that Pettit talks about include with Montana State University; Penn State; and Pettit’s position as First Montana Commissioner of Higher Education.

Armstrong discusses her early life in Helena and her family which is of Irish descent. Sidney talks about attending the International School of Geneva during high school and her attendance at the University of Montana in Missoula. She explains her close relationship with former Governor Tom Judge and his first wife, Carol including her first job working part-time for Carol Judge as a social secretary; working on Tom Judge’s campaigns for the Legislature, lieutenant governor, and governor; and how Tom Judge hires Sidney to work full-time after her divorce. Sidney explains how her job for Tom Judge included working on appointments to boards, commissions, and advisory councils. Judge’s third gubernatorial election and loss to his then-lieutenant governor, Ted Schwinden, is discussed by Sidney. And finally Sidney talks about how after being fired by Governor Judge’s successor, Governor Schwinden, she was hired by Jim Murry with the Montana AFL-CIO.

Barrett discusses his early years growing up in Montana as the son of an Irish-Catholic father and a Jewish mother. He talks about his family’s background in coal mining and with the Montana Democratic Party. Barrett highlights his own experiences with state and national politics starting in the 1970s through the Constitutional Convention (the Con-Con), and as Democratic National Committee Man. Barrett details his work running specific Democratic Party campaigns and relationships with the candidates, including Senators Lee Metcalf, Pat Williams, John Melcher, Conrad Burns, and Max Baucus. His work with state candidates and officeholders includes governors, state representatives, state senators and state executives: Forrest Anderson, Tom Judge, Ted Schwinden, Brian Schweitzer, Stan Stephens, Marc Racicot, and Judy Martz, Mark O’Keefe, Don Peoples, and Karl Ohs. Barrett covers topics including copper mining closures, documentary on Lee Metcalf, and friendship with Pat Williams and running his campaign for free.

Barrett discusses operations in Montana including executive reorganization, tax controversies, workers comp controversies, economic opportunities, development plans, working for state officials, geography, politics in different areas, economy around the state, logistics, and time management. Barrett highlights the importance of being honest to clients/officials and turning down state appointments offered after helping candidates win the Montana governorship. Barrett subsequently founded his own company to do contract work offering interpersonal training, highway traffic safety, and economic development public forums. Montana officials mentioned include Governors Forrest Anderson, Tom Judge, Marc Racicot, and Stan Stephens; Senators Pat Williams and John Melcher. Barrett continues to discuss his role as Democratic National Committee Man, his appointment to the Democratic National Committee’s Rules Committee, and interactions with national Democratic Party figures and campaigns including Jesse Jackson, Bill Clinton, and Nancy Pelosi. Finally Barrett highlights his work at Michigan Tech University to create videotaped interviews with guest speakers.

Ellingson discusses her early life and work at her family’s drive-in restaurant in Texas. Mae Nan talks about her interest in history and political science that began in high school in Texas. While attending junior college she met her future husband. In 1967 she transferred to the University of Montana. In 1968 she and her husband moved to Alaska for his job as a helicopter pilot until he died in an accident. Afterwards Mae Nan went back to Montana and finished her degree in history and then continued on to earn her master’s degree. She became interested in Montana government and wrote her master’s thesis on the 1971 legislative session. This interest in state government continued through her election and work as a Republican delegate to the Montana Constitutional Convention in 1972, and she recalls the convention and her thoughts on the other delegates who served with her.

Racicot discusses his early years in Montana and his father’s career as a high school teacher and coach around Montana. Racicot chronicles his involvement in politics beginning in high school, covering his undergraduate school at Carroll College and his attendance at the military law school in Charlottesville, Virginia. He recounts his service as a JAG officer for the Army in Germany, later service with the Missoula County Attorney’s Office as a special prosecutor, and as a deputy county attorney in Helena. While with the Montana AG’s Office, he worked on the high-profile kidnapping case of Olympic hopeful biathlete Kari Swenson. Racicot discusses his three unsuccessful campaigns for a judgeship and his victory and service as Republican Montana Attorney General. Racicot talks about his support of George McGovern in the 1972 presidential campaign and his contact with McGovern and Stephen Ambrose while Ambrose was writing a book about McGovern.

Loendorf reflects on growing up in Wolf Point, Montana, and he discusses interactions between white and Native people in Montana. Loendorf talks about going to college at Carroll College and later going to law school, and how after completing law school, he became a law clerk for Justice Wes Castles of the Montana Supreme Court. Also, he describes going into practice with Tom Harrison, and how early on, he drafted bills for the Legislative Counsel in Montana to supplement his income. This relationship with Loendorf’s law partner extends to how he ran Harrison’s campaign for the Montana state legislature, and how Harrison returned the favor when Loendorf ran for and won a seat serving in the Montana Constitutional Convention. And Loendorf describes his service with the convention’s Legislative Committee and the operations of the Montana Legislature, with regard to the provisions of the Constitutional Convention and the new Montana Constitution.

In this second of two interviews, Racicot discusses his successful campaign running as a Republican for attorney general of Montana. Racicot recalls his plans to run for reelection but instead deciding to run for governor of Montana. His successful election and service as governor are recounted, and how It affected his wife, Theresa, and their five children. Racicot’s describes working with his two lieutenant governors: Denny Rehberg and Judy Martz. Also discussed are Racicot’s reorganization efforts and issues during his two four-year terms as governor. He talks extensively of his friendship with George W. Bush when both were governors and how Bush was convinced by Racicot to run for president. Racicot recalls the presidential campaign and tumultuous election, including the extensive ballot recounts. After the campaign, Racicot describes working for the Bracewell and Patterson law firm in D.C. and simultaneously serving as chairman of the Republican National Committee.

Republican Harp discusses his 20 years serving in the House and the Senate of the Montana Legislature. Harp reflects on his formative years in the Flathead Valley and his service with Montana Boys State. He also focuses on his professional career in construction, running Harp Line Construction. Harp highlights his House career, starting with his first election to the Montana House in 1980. He covers how the different reapportionments changed his district, including Evergreen, Whitefish, Lakeside, and Eureka at different times. House committees that Harp serves on consist of the Transportation Committee and the Tax Committee. In the Montana Senate, Harp represents Evergreen and Columbia Falls. He also serves in the Senate as Minority Whip and Majority Leader, and on the Senate Tax Committee and Senate Rules Committee. One of the critical issues that Harp focused on in the Senate was electrical deregulation.

Miller and Melton discuss their experiences with public education and political educational organizations in K-12 education in Montana. Kirk Miller talks about his work as a Montana educator; his professional experience with the Montana Board of Education, including as its chairman; and his service as the executive director of the Montana School Administrators. Lance Melton discusses lobbying to provide adequate education to the children of Montana, the Montana School Boards Association, as well as tenure reform. Both Miller and Melton outline the impact of changes to the Montana Constitution regarding education and the use of public funds for school choice, including charter schools, home schooling, and online education.

Brown is a former legislator in the Montana house and senate. He discusses his service as dean and president of the senate and chairman of many legislative committees. He recounts his service in the legislature and provides insight of several Montana governors and legislators. He mentions his unsuccessful campaign for Montana Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives and his failed run for Montana Governor. Mr. Brown details his election and his service as Montana’s Secretary of State. He further recounts his formative years in Montana, his high school vocational agricultural program, and how he earned two bachelor’s degrees in history and political science from Montana State University. He recalls his love of history represented in his work as a high school history teacher and his appointment to the Montana Historical Society Board of Trustees. Finally he expresses his concern about recent changes to the present day Republican Party.