State Senator, Theresa Manzella (R - Hamilton), was the most vocal opponent of the Convention of States resolution heard in the Montana Senate last week in Helena. Manzella began her floor speech by thanking the Democrats on their "clarity of thought, common sense, and integrity." (click for video)
The John Birch Society's article "John Birch Society Credited With Killing Constitutional Convention Call in Montana" indicates they worked with Senator Manzella. Their article stated she used their materials in defeating the effort in Montana.
This is nothing new. The John Birch Society (JBS) has a long history of working with the Democrats to try and prevent states from joining the Convention of States effort. This last week in Nebraska, George Soro's linked Common Cause was there to testify against Convention of States. In Michigan and Kansas, the ACLU testified along side of the John Birch Society in opposition.
The JBS were ignored in other states like Texas, Oklahoma, Utah, and North Dakota which have all passed the Convention of States application, and are awaiting other states like Montana to get on board. In all 15 states have passed the initiative (click for progress map).
As you can see, most of the state supports our efforts (red shade), but we were blocked by legislators representing the much smaller blue shaded areas.
It is important that you talk to your state legislators on the need of joining the Convention of States. Term limits, fiscal restraints like a balanced budget amendment, and the repeal of the 16th and 17th Amendments are truly only possible with new amendments, and Congress could never be trusted to propose them.
Senator Manzella will still be in Helena for the next opportunity to pass this resolution in 2023, as will many of the other senators that voted against it. The Montana House of Representatives did not get to consider it this year. This makes it imperative to discuss with all state legislators.
The 26-24 defeat is a setback for our team in Montana, but we are not discouraged.
Why? Because we understand their is no other peaceful option, and the we know a majority of Montana agrees. A Convention of States is the best option to rein in an out-of-control federal government.