Tanner Smith in 2024 MT Governor's race
On Budget & Economy:
Opposed tax dollars to construct affordable housing
Rep. Tanner Smith, R-Lakeside, for example, said he is skeptical that it's a good time to invest public dollars in housing construction, given currently high
construction costs. "There's so much money out there in the private sector that's just waiting for the cost of goods to go down," Smith said.
Source: Montana Free Press on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Apr 3, 2023
On Civil Rights:
Supported bill prohibiting minors at drag shows
Republican lawmakers repeatedly described drag as inappropriate for children, comparing the performance with stripping and referencing adult drag shows they had heard of or personally attended decades ago. "It was adults doing adult things.
And that's great," said Rep. Tanner Smith, R-Lakeside, referencing a drag performance he said he attended 30 years ago. "We're just asking, just leave the kids out of it."
Source: Montana Free Press on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Feb 23, 2023
On Drugs:
Keep cannabis businesses 1,000 feet from churches/schools
A handful of cannabis-related bills were tabled in committee during the first half of the 2023 session. House Bill 265, sponsored by
Rep. Tanner Smith, R-Lakeside, would have increased the required distance between a new cannabis business and public spaces like churches or schools from 500 feet to 1,000 feet.
Source: Montana Free Press on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Mar 8, 2023
On Drugs:
Marijuana is decaying our state from within
Smith criticized Gianforte's administration most pointedly in regards to the governor's stance on social issues, specifically his expansion of marijuana dispensaries in the state. "[Marijuana]
is decaying our state from within. Everywhere [dispensaries] have been tried, it always ends in misery… look at California, Oregon, Washington," Smith said.
Source: Daily Inter Lake on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Jun 15, 2023
On Education:
Quality education for students, competitive pay for teachers
Committed to providing quality education to strengthen and equip students with the
skills necessary for success and competitive pay for teachers
Source: 2024 Montana Governor campaign website TannerForMontana.com
Nov 1, 2023
On Energy & Oil:
Advocate for sustainable and diverse energy sources
Advocate for sustainable and diverse energy sources to drive Montana's economy while protecting the environment -
such as the preservation of water rights to safeguard this vital resource for future generations
Source: 2024 Montana Governor campaign website TannerForMontana.com
Nov 1, 2023
On Principles & Values:
Montana born and raised, great pride in "God's country"
Tanner J. Smith is a candidate for the people of Montana. He's Montana born and raised and takes great pride in "God's country".
As a father of 5 children ranging in age from 8 - 20 years old, he believes that building and maintaining safe communities and schools starts with speaking up and getting involved.
Source: 2024 Montana Governor campaign website TannerForMontana.com
Nov 1, 2023
On Principles & Values:
We need to double down on conservatism
[On GOP politics]: "A Republican from Northwest Montana that's an excavator with a logging background is far different than a
Republican farmer. While we may agree on 80% of the issues, a Northwest Montana Republican brings more conservative stances to issues," Smith said. "We need to double down on conservatism."
Source: Daily Inter Lake on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Jun 15, 2023
On Tax Reform:
Implement policies to lower taxes, promote economic growth
Recognizing the burden of high taxes on Montanans, implementing responsible
fiscal policies that will lower taxes and promote economic growth
Source: 2024 Montana Governor campaign website TannerForMontana.com
Nov 1, 2023
On Crime:
Firm on crime; no exceptions; see something, say something
- November 12: "Many police departments have volunteer programs that allow citizens to support law enforcement through various activities. Explore opportunities to volunteer and contribute your skills and time to help make your community safer."
- October 26: Let's make Montana safe again. Be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or activity to the police. Your observations could assist in preventing crimes or identifying potential risks." If you see something, say something.
- September 17: "The most fundamental way to support law enforcement is by being law-abiding citizens. Respect and obey the rules and regulations in your community".
We can also aid in the effort by NOT implementing bad policies.
- August 14: We need to be firm on crime! No exceptions.
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Energy & Oil:
Strive for energy independence; extract rich coal & oil
- November 16: "Montana is rich in natural resources, including coal, minerals, and oil. Blue-collar workers play a crucial role in extracting and processing these resources, ensuring that they are available for various industries and contributing
to the state's resource-based economy."
- October 30: "Blue-collar workers form a significant portion of the workforce in Montana, especially in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, construction, and transportation.
These sectors contribute to the state's economy by creating jobs, generating income, and driving economic growth. I am one and I will continue to support the Blue-collar workers!"
- August 28: This is one key reason why we need to strive for energy
independence: Economic Growth and Job Creation. By reducing our dependence on external sources of energy, we have a unique opportunity to stimulate local economies and create jobs within the state.
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Environment:
Scored 14% on Montana Conservation Voters scorecard
Montana Conservation Voters protects our clean air, clean water, public lands and democracy by supporting leaders who fight for these rights and by holding accountable leaders who do not.MCV will make climate action an unavoidable issue for voters,
candidates and elected officials at all levels of government. MCV will work to replace anti-conservation elected leaders with pro-conservation elected leaders.
2023 House Scorecard for Rep. Tanner Smith: 14%
Source: Montana Conservation Voters on 2024 Montana Governor race
Dec 24, 2023
On Environment:
Hall of Shame on Montana Conservation Voters scorecard
Montana Conservation Voters protects our clean air, clean water, public lands and democracy by supporting leaders who fight for these rights and by holding accountable leaders who do not.MCV will make climate action an unavoidable issue for voters,
candidates and elected officials at all levels of government. MCV will work to replace anti-conservation elected leaders with pro-conservation elected leaders.
2023 Scorecard for Gov. Gianforte: "Hall of Shame". Gov. Gianforte vetoed SB 442 ["Allow
for marijuana tax revenue to be used for county road maintenance"]. Why did the Governor choose to ignore the thousands of everyday Montanans who testified, called, wrote, or rallied in support of this bill?
Why did he reject a bipartisan solution, with broad support in the legislature and in communities across Montana? By dismissing the hard work and earnest opinions of so many Montanans, he showed that he has no shame.
Source: Montana Conservation Voters on 2024 Montana Governor race
Dec 24, 2023
On Environment:
Preserve water rights to safeguard for future
In a press release [announcing his gubernatorial candidacy], Smith emphasized "the power of Montana values and our way of life," such as "hard work, self-reliance, and respect for our natural wonders," and said that he is "determined to preserve and
restore these values, ensuring a brighter future for every Montana."According to the press release, Smith plans to campaign on combating crime; lowering taxes; advocating for "sustainable and diverse energy sources to drive
Montana's economy while protecting the environment -- such as the preservation of water rights to safeguard this vital resource for future
generations"; "providing quality education"; and "defending the rights and freedoms cherished by Montanans."
Source: Flathead Beacon on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Jun 13, 2023
On Environment:
Steward with care but without federal overreach
Tanner Smith for Governor on Facebook:- September 7: As your Governor, I will give the Citizens of Montana assurance they will be always protected from Federal Government Over-reach and policies - We will NOT be victims!
- September 2:
As residents of this beautiful state, we are entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and protecting its natural resources for future generations. Montana's breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and clean waters are not only an essential
part of our identity but also an invaluable heritage that we must steward with care. It is upon us to strive for sustainable practices, fostering a culture that ensures we leave Montana better than we found it. Each small effort we make collectively
adds up to substantial change, inspiring a brighter and greener future for our children and grandchildren. Allow me to lead that charge once again, as your next Governor
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Gun Control:
2nd Amendment is alive and well in Montana
- September 10: Gun show at the Majestic Valley Arena was a success. ???? The 2nd Amendment is alive and well in Montana. We picked up a new Ruger for the wife and found a Benchmade knife she's been searching 12 years to find.
- September 5:
As a public servant, I understand the concerns and importance you place on safeguarding our constitutional rights, particularly the 2nd Amendment. I want to assure you that I am dedicated to protecting and upholding this fundamental right.
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Homeland Security:
Thank veterans who have selflessly served our country
Tanner Smith for Governor: November 11: "A heartfelt thank you to all the brave veterans who have selflessly served our country. Your sacrifices and dedication are truly remarkable and deserve our utmost gratitude.
Today, we honor and remember you for your courage and commitment. And a special thank you to my Niece, Brother and Stepfather for protecting our freedom. #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans"
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Immigration:
If Federal Government won't enforce immigration laws, I will
- August 27: Immigration, legal or illegal, continues to be a complex and sensitive topic. Strict illegal immigration policies are implemented by government to protect national security, maintain social order, and preserve economic stability.
While these policies aim to address legitimate concerns, I will serve to protect us from wrongful immigration policies. "If the Federal Government won't enforce immigration laws I will".
- August 11: Week 1 as Governor I'll declare a State of Emergency
with regards to our overcrowded County Jails. We then can clear out the jails and move these addicts, illegals and repeat criminal offenders to a separate facility where we can stack them deep. We can do this humanely, with dignity and continue the due
process system. Our local law enforcement men and women need help. This will help morale, aid in recruiting and minimize the wave of retirements from our valued seasoned professionals. Montana needs to be a law and order state again.
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Principles & Values:
Respect the sacred flag & the Pledge of Allegiance
- November 24: "Respect for the Flag: The Pledge of Allegiance is typically recited while facing the flag, serving as a demonstration of respect and honor. This act symbolizes appreciation for the sacrifices made by previous generations and the
country's symbols that represent the freedoms enjoyed."
- October 28: "The Pledge instills a sense of patriotism in citizens, encouraging them to love and support their country. By reciting the pledge, individuals reaffirm their dedication to America
and its ideals, promoting a strong sense of loyalty and devotion."
- September 20: "Unity and National Identity: The Pledge of Allegiance serves as a unifying symbol for Americans, emphasizing the shared values and principles that form the foundation
of the country. It fosters a sense of national identity, reminding citizens of their commitment to the nation."
- August 13: This flag is sacred and so is Montana. I plan to protect both when I am elected as Governor.
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On War & Peace:
Peace through strength is best deterrent, in Israel too
Tanner Smith for Governor: October 9: "Tanner Smith for Governor is in 100% solidarity with Israel during this tragedy. Times like these remind us that peace through strength is the best deterrent. Evil exists in this world and this is why we don't let
Chinese Spy Balloons fly over Montana. As Governor I would have taken that balloon down at the border. Keeping Montanans safe is my top priority. Actions speak louder than words and Tanner Smith doesn't write letters."
Source: Facebook posting on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
Nov 16, 2023
On Health Care:
We don't work 7 days a week so everyone can have freebies
Ryan Busse: Folding more Montanans into Medicaid coverage was a bipartisan solution that has only improved the lives and livelihood[s] of countless people. It has provided certainty and stability in our communities--for kids, seniors and
Indigenous people. And it has saved all of us money in the long term.Tanner Smith: We need to provide some assistance for the healthcare of children and those folks in need of temporary coverage.
I also believe people who can work need to work and provide for themselves, including their health insurance. There needs to be sideboards and curbs on
Medicaid or it will become financially unsustainable like every governmental assistance program. Those of us in the private sector don't work 7 days a week so everyone can have freebies.
Source: Montana Free Press on 2024 Montana Gubernatorial race
May 10, 2024
Page last updated: Oct 31, 2024