Billings Mayoral Candidate Mike Nelson’s DEI Board Role Surfaces Amid National Backlash

BILLINGS, MT — As debates over diversity, equity and inclusion programs intensify nationwide, Billings mayoral candidate Mike Nelson’s role as a founding member of the local Chamber of Commerce’s DEI advisory board has emerged as a potential campaign issue after being brought to Western Montana News’ attention by local readers.

Nelson, who is among four candidates vying for mayor in the November 4 election, served as a founding member of the Billings Chamber’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Network Advisory Board, according to materials from his 2023 Legacy Award recognition by the chamber.

The timing puts Nelson’s candidacy in the spotlight as President Trump issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, calling DEI programs “illegal and immoral discrimination programs” and directing federal agencies to eliminate such initiatives.

Montana universities like UM and MSU are conducting audits to comply with federal orders to remove DEI programs, reflecting broader changes across the state’s public institutions.

The Billings Chamber of Commerce described Nelson as “truly an advocate for business, commerce, and workforce” when presenting him with the Legacy Award in 2023. The organization highlighted his work on the DEI advisory board alongside his other community involvement.

Nelson, a Billings native who returned to the city after nearly three decades in Las Vegas’s hospitality industry, led the renovation and reopening of the historic Northern Hotel in downtown Billings. He served as chairman of the Chamber’s board of directors from 2020-2021.

Nationwide, lawmakers in 25 states have introduced more than 70 bills targeting DEI efforts at public institutions, with 2025 seeing an increase in legal challenges, political pushback, and public skepticism toward DEI programs.

The Legacy Award recognized Nelson for “consistently demonstrated success in improving the business and economic climate in addition to the quality of life for residents of Billings.”

Nelson is competing against Deputy Mayor Mike Boyett, Councilwoman Jennifer Owen, and political newcomer Amanda Housler in the November 4 general election for Billings mayor.

Nelson’s campaign was contacted for comment on his current views on DEI initiatives, how his board involvement might inform his approach as mayor, and his position on diversity programs in city government, but had not responded by publication time.