John MuesVerified account

- That said, I don't think Democrats can out-carpetbag Republicans in state-wide elections, and, thus, should call out carpetbagging during a Democratic primary (even when a candidate attests to her "deep roots"). We're really lucky the GOP runs these carpetbaggers. It gives

Democrats a chance in the general election. It's helped Tester, and should help Bullock, Cooney, and Williams. At a minimum, it will help them perform better than they otherwise would. Let's not give up that competitive advantage. - A number of Montana's transplants,

including Democrats, may prefer to elect and be led by those from out-of-state. We may even see wealthy out-of-staters - or, those with wealthy connections - recruited to come to Montana for the purpose of seizing political power. To an extent, that's already happening.

- Arguably, Democrats are as guilty as anyone in running carpetbaggers for state-wide office. Exhibit A: the 2020 Democratic U.S. Senate Primary race. Therein, you'll see a case that would make Gianforte or Rosendale - carpetbaggers, as the article noted - appear to be the

most solid, committed Montanan. By that, at least New Jersey Greg and Maryland Matt haven't egregiously dissembled about their thin Montana roots. At least they've paid Montana taxes, had a job in Montana, and lived in Montana some time in the past 30-35 years. At least they