Republican Senator Tim Sheehy Pledges to Authorize Trump’s Iran War Authorization Republican Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana said Tuesday that he would support legislation authorizing President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran. Speaking at the Semafor World Economy event in Washington, D.C., Sheehy stated he would “of course” vote for the measure, calling it a necessary step. He emphasized that the proposed resolution to end the war would not be supported by him, framing the issue as a complex political and military challenge. Sheehy argued that the situation is more intricate than the public has been led to believe, particularly in the context of the ongoing political campaign. “This is a far more complex problem than the average American has been led to believe and spoon-fed, especially these past 43 days,” he said. He added that he believes the Trump campaign is progressing well, though he did not elaborate on the reasons for his confidence. The senator also mentioned that the Trump administration is likely to seek additional funding for the war effort. “That’s where the real debate will happen; it won’t be the authorizations or the resolutions, it’s going to be who’s going to pay to … finish this campaign,” Sheehy predicted. He claimed that only Republicans would support the funding request, highlighting the partisan nature of the debate. Sheehy criticized what he described as unfair criticism of the Trump administration’s military actions. “For all of the negativity that I think is driven by a lot of the political distaste for our president, I think it’s been a very unfair characterization of what our military has executed,” he said. He framed Iran’s decision to close the Strait of Hormuz as a critical escalation, comparing it to a nuclear threat.#strait_of_hormuz #trump_administration #montana #tim_sheehy #semafor_world_economy
Two Feathers Ranch Listing in Montana Sparks Interest Amid Yellowstone Legacy A 357-acre ranch in Darby, Montana, known as Two Feathers Ranch, has been listed for $16.3 million, drawing attention for its historical ties to the hit TV series Yellowstone. The property, which appears briefly in the Paramount show, is situated near the real-life filming location of the fictional Dutton family compound. The ranch, once part of the historic Chief Joseph Ranch, features a 7,180-square-foot owner’s residence with three bedrooms and five bathrooms, along with a guest home, manager’s residence, and access to Tin Cup Creek. The listing, managed by agent Deke Tidwell of Hall and Hall, highlights the property’s additional amenities, including irrigated pastureland supporting a Black Angus cattle operation and infrastructure for equestrian and ranching activities. The ranch’s connection to Yellowstone has amplified its appeal, as the show’s five-season run, which concluded in December 2024, reshaped public interest in Western lifestyles and Montana’s landscapes. Kevin Costner, who portrayed the central patriarch John Dutton in the series, played a pivotal role in the show’s success. His portrayal of the Montana rancher, battling to protect his family’s land, helped elevate Yellowstone into a cultural phenomenon. Costner, however, left the series after five seasons due to scheduling conflicts and a shift toward his film project Horizon. His character’s departure marked a turning point, altering the show’s direction for its final episodes. Despite the cast changes, the show’s influence persists, particularly in Montana’s real estate market. Listing agent Tidwell noted that the property’s proximity to the Dutton Ranch filming site continues to attract tourists and buyers seeking a connection to the show’s iconic setting.#paramount #montana #kevin_costner #two_feathers_ranch #deke_tidwell
Montana halts doula funding amid budget shortfall, Medicaid cut fears Montana has suspended a planned initiative to reimburse doulas who provide support to birthing mothers in underserved maternity care regions, according to a report by KFF Health News. The program, which had been a key focus for state officials, was paused due to financial constraints and concerns over potential reductions in federal Medicaid funding. The decision reflects broader challenges in balancing healthcare access with fiscal responsibility amid shrinking state budgets. The initiative aimed to address disparities in maternal care by ensuring that women in rural or low-resource areas had access to trained doulas, who offer emotional and physical support during childbirth. Advocacy groups had praised the program as a critical step toward improving outcomes for mothers and infants in regions with limited medical infrastructure. However, state leaders cited the need to prioritize essential services amid a projected budget deficit, which has forced difficult choices about resource allocation. Federal Medicaid funding has also been a point of contention. Officials warned that proposed cuts to the program could further strain state budgets, particularly in sectors like healthcare. While the exact impact of these potential reductions remains unclear, the decision to halt the doula funding plan underscores the tension between expanding access to care and managing financial limitations. The move has drawn criticism from healthcare advocates, who argue that cutting support for maternal care could exacerbate existing inequities. They emphasize that rural communities often lack adequate medical facilities and trained personnel, making programs like the doula initiative vital for reducing complications during childbirth.#montana #medicaid #kff_health_news #doulas #maternal_health
Former Trump Cabinet Secretary Ryan Zinke Won't Seek Reelection to a Montana US House Seat Ryan Zinke, a Republican lawmaker from Montana and former U.S. Interior Secretary during President Donald Trump’s first term, has announced he will not seek reelection to his fifth term in the U.S. House of Representatives. The decision was made public on March 2, 2026, marking the end of his congressional career. Zinke, who has represented Montana’s at-large district since 2013, will step down from his seat following the conclusion of his current term. His announcement comes amid ongoing political developments in the state, though specific details about his future plans were not disclosed. Zinke’s departure from the House reflects a shift in his political trajectory, as he transitions away from federal office after nearly a decade in the legislature. The decision to retire from the House was reportedly influenced by a combination of personal and strategic considerations, though no formal statements have been made regarding his intentions beyond his congressional role. Zinke’s tenure in the House has been marked by his advocacy for energy development and conservative policies, aligning with the priorities of his party during his time in office. His exit from the House is expected to have implications for Montana’s political landscape, particularly as the state continues to navigate its role in national policy debates.#montana #ryan_zinke #us_house #republican #montana_us_house
Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke Won't Seek Reelection, Becoming Latest GOP Retirement Washington — Rep. Ryan Zinke of Montana announced Monday he will not run for reelection, becoming the latest Republican to retire ahead of what could be a tough midterm cycle for the party. In a letter released to the public, Zinke stated, “I have made the decision to leave office at the end of my fourth term and not seek re-election.” He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly, noting he had informed President Trump, the state governor, and senior congressional leaders of his choice. Zinke attributed his decision primarily to health concerns stemming from his time as a Navy SEAL. He explained that the physical toll of his military career has led to ongoing medical challenges, which he believes will make it difficult to fulfill his duties in the future. “While my belief in term limits for elected office is a consideration, I have quietly undergone multiple surgeries since returning to Congress and face several more immediately after leaving office,” he said. The injuries sustained during his Special Operations career, though not immediately life-threatening, require urgent attention and recovery time, which he plans to prioritize with his family. Zinke has represented Montana in the House since 2015, serving four terms. During his tenure, he took a leave of absence from 2017 to 2019 to lead the Department of the Interior under President Trump. He resigned from that position amid ethics investigations. His departure from Congress marks another significant loss for the Republican Party, which has already seen over 30 House Republicans announce their retirements in recent months. The party faces mounting challenges as it navigates a narrow majority in the House, with midterm elections looming.#president_trump #montana #ryan_zinke #department_of_the_interior #house_of_representatives
