Paugh and Mitchell square off in new House District 5
Editor’s note: Republican Braxton Mitchell and newcomer Democrat Steve Paugh will square off in the new House District 5, which covers the canyon communities, and the eastern rural Columbia Falls area.
Braxton Mitchell (R)
Age: 24
Occupation: Entrepreneur
Background: Two-term state legislator, involved in the family business of Vandevanter Meats & Montana Jerky Co. and small businesses, community partner and activist
What property tax reform policies do you support?
During the 2023 legislative session, I voted for legislation to send property tax rebates to resident homeowners across Montana, which has significantly eased Montanans’ financial burden due to rising property taxes. Unfortunately, Democrats in lockstep opposed this legislation. I am committed to supporting legislation that would base property taxes primarily on the purchase price of properties. This would offer substantial relief to long-time Montana residents who have deep roots in our state, especially our seniors on fixed incomes. I plan on working with House and Senate leadership, the governor and the governor’s bipartisan task force to identify and implement the most effective tax reform policies.
Did the 2023 legislative session do enough to address the state’s housing crunch? Are there other avenues you’re in favor of pursuing?
We passed solid housing bills last session, but many were shut down by the far-left supreme court. Senate Bill 245 I believe was one of the most effective.
Public school districts across the state are facing budget shortfalls. What role can the Legislature play in shoring up public education funding?
I support our public schools. The reality is our education funding formulas at the state level need to change. One of the things I hear about most from people in our community is how high property taxes are - and our residents are starting to realize that levy after levy after levy are catching up with them and many, especially seniors, are facing losing their homes. The U.S. Department of Education is the biggest culprit in our funding structure. They have set the standard that we should fund systems, not schools. It is hurting our students most, because money is not going into the classroom. Our local schools would have access to more potential funding than we could ever dream of if that archaic entity was finally dissolved.
How do you view the judicial branch in the state?
Our judicial branch in this state is a disaster. The far-left Montana Supreme Court frequently overturns significant legislation passed by the Legislature. Such as legislation that would prevent men from competing against women in sports. The left-wing court is filled with bought and paid for liberal hacks who engage in judicial activism and legislate from the bench on a daily basis. They do this because they don’t have a liberal governor with a veto pen to kill legislation.
What other policies or issues would you like to address if elected?
Last session I sponsored 10 bills and passed nine of them. I plan on carrying a few dozen bills during the 2025 session. I plan on sponsoring legislation that will strengthen our immigration laws in the state, legislation that will strengthen our election process, legislation to assist auxiliary officers, permitting reform legislation and legislation to strengthen our Second Amendment rights. Among many other things.
Steve Paugh (D)
Age: 70
Occupation: Retired insurance agent
Family: Married with four children and seven grandchildren.
Background: Treasurer for the school board in Pennsylvania, and announcer and committee member for Cabin Fever Days/Barstool Races.
What property tax reform policies do you support?
I believe property tax reform should prioritize fairness and prevent undue financial strain on homeowners. That’s why I support limiting annual property tax increases, ensuring families aren’t hit with sudden hikes. We should also expand homestead exemptions to help low-income families, seniors and those with disabilities. The influx of luxury and short-term rental properties like Airbnbs has disrupted our housing market and we need to address that as well. It’s equally important to provide targeted relief for renters, who often feel the effects of rising property taxes when they’re passed down in rent increases. We need more transparent tax assessments and smarter revenue sources to ensure all Montanans are treated fairly. I am committed to seeing these changes through.
Did the 2023 legislative session do enough to address the state’s housing crunch? Are there other avenues you’re in favor of pursuing?
The 2023 session didn’t do nearly enough to tackle the housing crisis. Too many important bills that could’ve made a real difference were either blocked or vetoed. Unfortunately, political gamesmanship took priority over the real needs of Montanans. We must focus on real solutions, such as expanding rental assistance programs and providing stronger protections for tenants. Another area that’s been overlooked is support for renters who’ve already experienced steep rent increases — offering rental rebate programs or tax credits could provide some much-needed relief. If property owners are benefiting from rebates, renters should see a fair reduction in their rents. With our community’s support, I’m ready to push for policies that help both renters and homeowners.
Public school districts across the state are facing budget shortfalls. What role can the Legislature play in shoring up public education funding?
It’s clear that the Legislature needs to step up and do more for public education. We need to increase state funding to supplement local budgets and ensure that all districts, especially rural ones, have the resources they need. Montana ranks at the bottom for teacher pay, and that’s just unacceptable. We need to pay our educators fairly and invest in infrastructure to create safe learning environments. I know firsthand, from my time on the school board, how challenging it can be to balance budgets while protecting opportunities for students. I’m committed to finding the right balance and ensuring our schools are equipped to serve every child.
How do you view the judicial branch in the state?
I see the judicial branch as a critical component of our state government, playing a vital role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all. It’s important that our courts remain independent and free from political influence, providing fair and impartial rulings. At the same time, we need to make sure that all Montanans have access to the legal system and that no one is left behind due to lack of resources. A well-functioning judicial system is essential to protecting the rights and freedoms we all cherish.
What other policies or issues would you like to address if elected?
Beyond property tax and housing, I’m passionate about making sure our public schools are properly funded, improving teacher salaries and addressing critical infrastructure needs. I’m also committed to protecting Montana’s natural resources by promoting conservation efforts and responsible land use. When it comes to public safety, I support commonsense measures that respect our rights while ensuring the safety of our communities. With your vote and continued input, I’ll continue to push for fair taxation policies and advocate for policies that protect everyone’s personal freedoms and promote equality. Together, we’re working toward a Montana that serves everyone equally and fairly.