Topic
Opinion
The Opinion section of Western Montana News is where ideas take center stage. Featuring editorials, columns, op-eds, and letters, this space highlights diverse perspectives on local and national issues. From in-depth analysis to passionate viewpoints, we encourage open and thoughtful discussion.
Have something to say? Share your thoughts by submitting a letter to [email protected].
Let the Free Market Work for Patients
As a conservative Montanan, I believe the government should stop interfering in the healthcare market—especially when it comes to prescription drug development. That’s why I’m concerned about a policy buried in the Inflation Reduction Act called the “pill penalty.” It puts strict price controls on pill-form medications years before it does the same for injectables,…
5150 in the 406: Missoula’s Mental Health Crisis Meets Nationwide Protest Hysteria
Waving signs, shouting slogans, and wearing costumes, Missoula’s activists staged a group exorcism of Trump Derangement Syndrome—a glimpse into the fractured state of the post-2024 Left.
One Gay Judge Just Told Montana Women Their Privacy Is Bigotry
Judicial activism meets gender theology in Montana, where privacy is heresy and delusion is law.
Is it Really, “Your Body, Your Choice”?
Why are taxpayers footing the bill for abortions and trans surgeries in Montana—with no choice in the matter?
Montana Delegation Missed the Chance to Shine
When it mattered most, Montana’s leaders bent to pressure instead of standing for principle.
If Trans Legislators Can See the Full CPS File on the Kolstads’ Daughter, Why Can’t the Kolstads?
Civil rights attorney Matthew Monforton says Montana lawmakers want access to CPS records—but not for the parents who lost their child.
It’s Time to Deport Montana’s Housing Crisis
As mass deportations accelerate, Missoula must not be overlooked—it must be ground zero.
Wolves, Hyenas and Legislators Run in Packs
The Wolves in GOP Clothing: Montana’s Nine Align with Democrats.
Justifying a False Narrative with a Bad Picture
No, Ukraine is not the dam holding back Russia from trying to consume the rest of Europe
Montana’s Fight for Life is in the Hopper
Montanans For Life Chair Robin Sertell on the Legislative Battle to Protect Life in Montana—From Womb to Tomb
COVID: A Modern-day Hydra
Montana lawmakers in Helena sidestep a fight against mRNA shots despite growing suspicions.
Are Montana Republicans the Party of Reality TV?
Before I make my argument that Montana Republicans are the party of reality TV, we need to define what we are talking about, so here’s a definition from Wikipedia: Reality television is a genre of television programming that documents purportedly unscripted real-life situations, often starring unfamiliar people rather than professional actors. Reality television emerged as…
When Kangaroos Run Courts, A Relationship with AI Becomes Inevitable
Facing a legal system stacked against him, Travis Mateer turns to AI for help in navigating the complexities of civil law and ‘lawfare’ in Missoula.
Is Anything About Surajit Khanna’s Returning Youth Initiative Real?
The Khanna Con: Is Dr. Khanna exploiting Montana’s well-meaning do-gooders for photo-ops, while offering little real help to those he claims to serve?
Journalism Is Not A Popularity Contest
Facing criticism and opposition, Travis Mateer highlights the importance of independent journalism in uncovering the truth about homelessness in Missoula.
A Reluctant Citizen Journalist’s First Date With AI
Travis Mateer explores his first experience with AI, sharing insights and humorous reflections on a ‘date’ with ChatGPT.
It’s Clear As Mud Where The Rubber Hits The Road In Missoula
Explore the complexities of Missoula’s homeless initiatives as Travis Mateer investigates rumors of church parking lots hosting “urban car campers”.
Montana’s Whine Producers
From protests to politics: Montana is producing a lot of intoxicating whines