Does Accountability Still Matter in Montana’s Legislature?
- Red MoonEagle
- Feb 9
- 2 min read
To Senator Pat Flowers
Minority Leader of the Senate
Senate District 31
Belgrade, MT
406-580-0035
Dear Senator Pat Flowers,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding your recent decision to oppose an ethical review of a fellow legislator. According to multiple media reports:
"Montana media outlets have reported on Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers' motion to suspend the Senate Ethics Committee's investigation into Senator Jason Ellsworth and refer the matter to the Montana Department of Justice. This motion was approved by a 27-22 vote in the Montana Senate."
The integrity of our legislative process relies on accountability. When allegations of misconduct arise—particularly when they involve potential abuses of power or misallocation of taxpayer funds—it is imperative that they are addressed transparently and thoroughly.
"Senator Ellsworth faces allegations of improperly approving a $170,000 state contract without following standard procedures, which a Legislative Audit Division report described as an 'abuse and waste' of government resources. Ellsworth and his attorney have disputed these findings."
While I understand that ethical investigations can be time-consuming and may disrupt legislative proceedings, ensuring that lawmakers adhere to ethical and legal standards is a fundamental responsibility of your office. Redirecting such concerns to another agency rather than allowing the Ethics Committee to proceed raises questions about whether this action truly serves the best interests of Montanans or if it is influenced by external pressures.
Violation of Constitutional Powers and Procedures
The Montana Constitution is explicitly structured to uphold government transparency, separation of powers, and accountability among elected officials. Article V, Section 10, of the Montana Constitution outlines the powers of the legislative branch, including the ability to discipline and investigate its own members. By circumventing the Senate Ethics Committee—a body established to oversee internal ethical concerns—you have disrupted the constitutional balance of powers and denied the Legislature the opportunity to fulfill its oversight responsibilities.
Additionally, Montana’s Constitution places a high priority on transparency in government (Article II, Section 9), ensuring that the public has the right to observe and scrutinize governmental actions. By removing this investigation from the legislative process and handing it over to another agency, your decision raises concerns about diminishing public oversight and reducing legislative accountability.
I Have Concerns About External Influence
As a constituent in your district, I am particularly troubled by the increasing presence of outside influences in our state government. Montana lacks strong laws preventing legislators from accepting money or undue influence from lobbyists and dark-money entities, making it difficult to trust that decisions are being made in the best interests of the people rather than powerful special interests.
I would appreciate a clear explanation of your rationale behind this decision. Your constituents deserve reassurance that ethical accountability remains a priority and that no elected official is above scrutiny. I hope you can clarify your position and help restore my confidence in your commitment to Montana’s constitutional principles and ethical governance.
Sincerely,