On Thursday, the Montana House of Representatives debated HJ 5, the COS application for a limited convention to propose amendments limiting federal spending, power, and terms of office. Despite proponents successfully addressing and dismantling opponents’ fears and objections, the measure was ultimately defeated by a vote of 42-58.
Although the grassroots are disappointed by the setback, Senior Vice President for Legislative Affairs Rita Peters pointed out that getting the bill to the House floor was, in itself, a major victory for the team.
“I was proud of [the grassroots volunteers] and their level of engagement,” she praised. “They worked really hard. Hats off to them.”
Additionally, Peters spotlighted the bill’s sponsor, Representative Shane Klakken, for his impressive testimony.
“Let’s stop complaining,” Klakken urged his colleagues. “Let’s stop being fearful. Let’s stop being comfortable. Let’s get off the sidelines.”
“This nation can’t be defeated on the battlefield,” another supporter argued during the debate. “But I would put our national debt in the category of existential threat. And so, we really have a choice. Do we want to continue to sit and complain and wring our hands? Or do we want to use the tools our Founders gave us to … push back, rein in Washington, DC, and do something about our national debt?”
The Treasure State may have turned down this opportunity to take action against federal tyranny, but we know that the grassroots won’t back down from the fight. We commend them for their commitment, effort, and patriotism. And when the time is right, we believe God will bless them with the victory they so rightfully deserve.
