Shows
Blue Bench PodcastUPDATE: How tariffs are impacting farmers in Montana with special guest Jason BoeshoreIn this episode, we dive into how tariffs are affecting Montana farmers, from grain prices to the ripple effects across rural communities. Our guest, Jason Boeshore, manages the UGC grain elevator in Culbertson, MT, where he purchases grain from local farmers and provides services such as grain marketing. Jason is a proud member of the Montana Democratic Party board and is the chair of the Richland County Democrats.
2025-08-2132 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Redistricting, Mail Ballots, and Creme BruleeJorgia and Andy sit down to explain the two major ways Republicans are coming after your voting rights. Trump wants to eliminate mail-in ballots, which 60% of Montanans use. Texas and California are duking it out over gerrymandering, and they walk through the whole situation. Trump and Putin also dined on filet mignon and creme brulee - ending the summit with nothing while the war rages on. Make sure your voter registration is up to date at your current address! Don't let paperwork keep you from the polls - that's what Republicans are banking on.
2025-08-1931 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: It's A Bad Week for Legal PrecedentJorgia and Andy return for a recap of the Trump Administration's latest attacks on foundational legal precedent. He's called the National Guard to DC and federalized their police. They're officially seeking to overturn gay marriage at the Supreme Court. And the EPA is considering repealing their finding that greenhouse gases are harmful to public health - a finding that is crucial for progressive climate policy.Our hearts go out to the people of Anaconda, and especially the loved ones and families of the victims. This was a horrific tragedy and we are with you as...
2025-08-1330 min
Blue Bench PodcastMontana Democrats Town HallThe Montana Democratic Party hosted a virtual town hall last week to discuss the statewide impacts of proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Democratic lawmakers and community stakeholders addressed the consequences the cuts will have on food security and access to healthcare, rural hospitals, indigenous communities, and reproductive care across the state of Montana.
2025-08-061h 08
Blue Bench PodcastMeet MDP's Interim Executive Director Justin AilportOn this episode of the Blue Bench Podcast, we chat with the Montana Democratic Party’s Interim Executive Director Justin Ailport. We talk about his Montana roots, what drives him, and why organizing right now matters more than ever.
2025-08-0131 min
Blue Bench PodcastThe Future of Medicaid in Montana with Senator Cora NeumannThe so-called Big Beautiful Bill will threaten access to health coverage for tens of thousands of Montanans in years to come. Now, Gianforte’s Department of Health and Human Services is trying to speed up the process, imposing work requirements and higher costs than the rest of the country. State Senator Cora Neumann from Bozeman sits down with us today to discuss. Join the resistance and leave public comment by Aug. 18th! LINK HERE: https://dphhs.mt.gov/1115DemonstrationWaiver/index
2025-07-3122 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Town Halls and TariffsJorgia and Andy rally around the cowardice of Sen. Daines, Sen. Sheehy, Rep. Zinke, and Rep. Downing - after shutting down the House to protect a pedophile, they're now appearing to skip out on town halls again. Montana Democrats are hosting their own town hall, Thursday July 31 @ 6pm - RSVP at montanademocrats.org/townhall. The two also discuss Trump's insane trade war, his "deal" with the EU, and how back to school shopping is forcing parents to pinch pennies.
2025-07-3029 min
Blue Bench PodcastThe Future of Medicaid in Montana with Senator Cora NeumannThe so-called Big Beautiful Bill will threaten access to health coverage for tens of thousands of Montanans in years to come. Now, Gianforte’s Department of Health and Human Services is trying to speed up the process, imposing work requirements and higher costs than the rest of the country. State Senator Cora Neumann from Bozeman sits down with us today to discuss. Join the resistance and leave public comment by Aug. 18th! LINK HERE: https://dphhs.mt.gov/1115DemonstrationWaiver/index
2025-07-2519 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Epstein, Montana Medicaid, and Public RadioOn this week's episode, Jorgia and Andy dive into the topic that has the whole country tuned in: the Epstein Files. We also explain how DPHHS is trying to kick Montanans off of Medicaid a year and a half earlier than necessary, and why cuts to public media are so detrimental to a rural state like ours. Contact DPHHS - dphhscomments@mt.gov - Subject: HELP Demonstration WaiverSuggested body: DPHHS’s decision to rush a 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver is cruel, hasty, and threatens to kick 31,000 Montanans (including 4,000 kids) off of Me...
2025-07-2333 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: ICE in Helena, Tribal Colleges, and Suing Donald TrumpJorgia and Andy give a whirlwind recap of the last week in Montana politics. The two discuss the arrest of Christopher Martinez by ICE in Helena and the impact Trump's cuts to tribal colleges will have on Indigenous communities. To no one's surprise, the MTGOP is up to no good and their new chair is no role model. Also, the Held v. Montana kids are suing Donald Trump and AG Knudsen is getting in the middle of it (we think he's salty he keeps losing) - tune in now! After the passage of the Big, Ugly Bill, Montana faces...
2025-07-1624 min
Blue Bench PodcastThe Governor's Veto Frenzy with Representative James ReavisThis week on The Blue Bench Podcast, we’re joined by special guest Representative James Reavis of Billings to break down some of the biggest vetoes from Governor Gianforte’s desk and what they mean for Montana families. We also dig into the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” and share tips on staying engaged and fired up through the summer months.
2025-07-1136 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: An (Almost) Full Breakdown of the Big, Ugly BillJorgia is joined by No Time for Neutral's new co-host: Andy Nelson! The two attempt to break down Trump's Big, Ugly, No Good, Very Bad Bill. It's a HUGE piece of legislation, with cuts to healthcare, education, and clean energy. The deficit goes up, billionaires make more money, and the rest of us get left out in the cold.A loving reminder from MDP: Take care of yourselves. Holding our delegation accountable is crucial right now, but this is a long fight. Burnout is real and we need you with us for the long haul! We recommend...
2025-07-0934 min
Blue Bench PodcastKeep Public Lands in Public Lands with Land TawneyOn this episode, we sit down with public lands champion Land Tawney. We talk about why protecting our public lands matters, how to take meaningful action, and the power of pressuring lawmakers to put people over profit. Don’t miss this one!
2025-06-2728 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Gianforte's VetoesJorgia and Shannon discuss Governor Gianforte's vetoes this session. He's vetoed anything from property tax relief for veterans to a bill holding his office accountable to the people. Tune in for the full rundown!
2025-06-2535 min
Blue Bench PodcastReproductive Freedom with Nancy KeenanThis week we sit down with longtime advocate and leader Nancy Keenan to talk about the fight for reproductive freedom in a post-Roe America. From her years at NARAL Pro-Choice America to her work in her home state of Montana, Nancy shares lessons from the frontlines and how everyday people can be effective advocates during this critical moment.
2025-06-2028 minBlue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: No Kings, Public Lands, and Call Your Senators!Jorgia and Shannon discuss the massive turnout at No Kings protests in Montana and the United States and what it might mean for the future. They also recap new updates in the Big Ugly Terrible Bill and talk about the tragedy in Minnesota - and why we need to come back together. Contact Sens. Daines and Sheehy to say NO to the reconciliation bill. Daines: DC: (202) 224-2651, Helena: (406) 443-3189 Sheehy: DC: (202) 224-2641, Helena: (406) 441-1069
2025-06-1940 min
Blue Bench PodcastMissoula Has PrideThis week on Blue Bench Podcast, Gaby and special co-host Andy Nelson, MDP’s Blue Bench Associate, sit down with Missoula Councilwoman Jennifer Savage. Earlier this month, Councilwoman Savage led the charge on a landmark resolution making the Pride flag an official city flag of Missoula, circumventing a law that bans the Pride flag from flying on public buildings. You don’t want to miss this episode!
2025-06-1426 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: LA protests, Northwestern Energy, and... Hamilton?On this week's No Time for Neutral, Shannon and Jorgia unpack the LA protests and Northwestern Energy's latest greed scheme. Shannon takes us back to school to learn about the veto process, and the two talk all things.. Hamilton (the musical, not the Founding Father, but him too.. technically)
2025-06-1231 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Messy Breakups, the Middle Class, and What's NextThis week on No Time for Neutral, we talk about the Elon–Trump breakup (spoiler: it's MESSY) and the newest Senate noise around the GOP’s “big beautiful bill”—but more importantly, we focus on what really matters: rebuilding the middle class and where Democrats go from here. Tune in for honest conversation, a few laughs, and a hopeful look at the road ahead for Democrats fighting for real progress.Contact Sens. Daines and Sheehy to say NO to the budget bill.Daines: DC: (202) 224-2651, Helena: (406) 443-3189Sheehy: DC: (202) 224-2641, Helena: (406) 441-1069
2025-06-0628 min
Blue Bench PodcastDemocratic Politics in Rural America with DNC Chair Ken MartinIn this episode, we sit down with newly elected DNC Chair Ken Martin to talk about how Democrats can rebuild trust and regain ground in rural America—including right here in Montana. From from community organizing to healthcare access, Chair Martin shares his vision for reconnecting with rural voters.
2025-06-0627 min
Blue Bench PodcastFlathead Valley Immigrants Nervous Living in Trump's AmericaThis week, we’re joined by Rebecca Miller and Johnny Ratka Skinner, Chair and board member of the Valley Neighbors of Flathead, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting immigrants to resources in the Flathead area, and equipping communities to provide resources for immigrants.Our guests discuss challenges facing the immigrant community in the Flathead Valley, including the recent arrest and detention of a Venezuelan man who was pulled over for a broken headlight. He was here legally. You don't want to miss this episode!
2025-05-3025 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Medicaid, Harvard, and a Veto SpreeIn the latest episode of the Blue Bench's new segment, No Time for Neutral, Shannon and Jorgia recap the GOP budget: How will Medicaid cuts affect Montana? Why do Republicans keep stealing from the poor to give to the rich?They also talk higher education attacks, Governor Gianforte's latest vetoes, and Northwestern Energy's latest antics. There's also some good news too - finally!Call the PSC before June 9 at 406-444-6150 and tell them no more rate hikes for Northwestern Energy!
2025-05-2936 min
Blue Bench PodcastHow Tariffs are Affecting Montana Farmers and RanchersWelcome to Season 2 of the Blue Bench Podcast. Now that the Legislative session is over, we're changing our focus to the national stage. Every week, we'll have interviews that help bring national news and issues home here to Montana. This week, we interviewed farmer and rancher from central Montana, Ben Peterson. Ben is on the board of the Farmers Union, Cattleman's Beef Board, and the Montana Democratic Party. Ben discusses everything from Trump's tariffs, to life as Democrat in rural Montana, to the proposed cuts to the USDA.
2025-05-2843 min
Blue Bench PodcastNo Time for Neutral: Planes, Medicaid, and Due ProcessThere's no time for neutral because sitting this out isn't an option.Welcome to Blue Bench Season 2! We'll be splitting the podcast into two episodes so you get all the information you need - but don't worry, we're not getting rid of anything! In this season opener, Jorgia and Shannon recap the last week of politics and it's a doozy. They talk Trump's Qatari plane, habeas corpus, the GOP budget, and what's going on locally in Montana - and what you can do to protect your neighbors from the latest Republican attacks.
2025-05-2830 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 16 -SEASON 1 FINALEJoin us for our final episode of Blue Bench Podcast Season One, where we’ve been covering the Montana Legislature since January. We close season one with our very first guest, Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers.Senator Flowers answers our lingering questions about the session and shares his parting words of wisdom to future leaders.Don't worry! The podcast isn't over! MDP will continue dropping weekly podcasts in your feed. Standby for some exciting announcements regarding new content!
2025-05-2819 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 15We're officially in the final stretch of the 2025 Legislative session. Today's talk of the town: property taxes, property taxes, and did I mention property taxes? Shannon breaks down property tax relief proposals and sits down with MFPE Executive Director Amanda Curtis to discuss labor and education.
2025-05-2838 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 14Shannon sits down with special co-host guest Jorgie Hawthorne, the Gail Stoltz Fellow for MDP. Listen for updates regarding the legislative session, state budget, property taxes, and more! The two also debrief the max capacity rally in Missoula Wednesday afternoon, featuring Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
2025-05-2825 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 13This week, Shannon and Gaby provide updates on property tax relief, attacks on Montana’s judiciary branch, and child care bills. There is some good news to report and, unfortunately, some not-so-great news. Plus, Shannon sits down and talks clean energy in Montana with Montana Environmental Information Center (MEIC) Executive Director Anne Hedges. Do you care about climate change, the environment, and what lawmakers in Helena are doing to promote a clean and healthful environment? Well, then you definitely don’t want to miss this amazing interview!
2025-05-2842 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 12Ravalli County Republican Senator Jason Ellsworth is banned from the Senate Floor. Shannon and Gaby discuss updates on the budget and what we can expect in the last month of the session. Gaby interviews former Montana Supreme Court Justice Mike Wheat about MTGOP attacks on the judiciary.
2025-05-2842 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 11It was a historic week in the Montana Legislature! A MTGOP lawmaker faces calls for expulsion from his own party. Plus, Medicaid Expansion is signed into law! Shannon interviews Senator Derek Harvey from Butte. You don’t want to miss this episode.
2025-05-2833 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 10Special co-host guest (and Montana Democratic Party Development Director!) Tiffany Williams joins us this week for Blue Bench. Tiffany shares her insights on slashes and cuts to the Department of Education and bills making their way through the Legislature. Shannon sits down with former lawmaker and lobbyist for Big Sky 55+, Margie Macdonald.
2025-05-2834 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 9It's half time in the 2025 legislative session! The Montana Legislature has reached transmittal and Gaby and Shannon breakdown the good, the bad, and the ugly at the halfway mark of the session.
2025-05-2820 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 8Welcome to week nine of the Montana Legislative session! This week, Shannon interview Representative Jonathan Karlen about property taxes and childcare bills.Next week, the Montana Democratic Party will host a virtual town hall with leadership from the Montana House and Senate Democrats. Join us!
2025-05-2821 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 7Medicaid Expansion is heading to the Governor's desk. Gaby and Shannon have all the updates to get you through week 8 of the legislative session! Plus, a special interview with Rep. Mary Caferro from Helena.
2025-05-2821 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 6Happy Valentine's Day from the Montana Democratic Party! This week, Gaby and Shannon discuss education bills, housing and a MTGOP bill proposing the 10 Commandments should be on display in every public school classroom in Montana. Shannon sits down with Senator Susan Webber from Browning to discuss bills from the Montana American Indian Caucus.
2025-05-2827 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 5Gaby and Shannon break down housing bills that received hearings in the House Judiciary Committee meeting this week. Plus, MTGOP is after your reproductive freedom… again! Shannon sits down with constitutional attorney and former candidate for Lieutenant Governor Raph Graybill to discuss Republican attempts to politicize and dismantle the independence of our judiciary.
2025-05-2827 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 4Shannon sits down Montana House Democrats Minority Leader Katie Sullivan to discuss everything from housing to Medicaid!
2025-05-2822 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 2Gaby and Shannon sit down and with Minority Leader Senator Pat Flowers to talk property taxes, Medicaid Expansion, affordable housing and public schools.
2025-05-2825 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 3Gaby and Shannon break down Medicaid Expansion and property tax bills in the Legislature. Gaby sits down with Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana's Martha Fuller to discuss the Roe v. Wade decision anniversary and the future of reproductive freedom in Montana.
2025-05-2819 min
Blue Bench PodcastBlue Bench Podcast Season 1 Episode 1Join us weekly as we unpack and demystify the chaos and excitement that is the Montana Legislative Session. In this podcast, we’ll spotlight important bills, interview lawmakers and stakeholders, and give you the top-lines you need to know to understand the news out of Helena.
2025-05-2818 min