A Gianforte/Juras Administration: Leaving Vulnerable Montanans High and Dry During Times of Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 02, 2020
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A Gianforte/Juras Administration: Leaving Vulnerable Montanans High and Dry During Times of Crisis
Helena, MT – On Tuesday, Governor Steve Bullock announced a series of consumer protections to soften the economic blow being felt by Montana families as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the provisions were orders to halt evictions, foreclosures, and the cancellation of utility services for 10 days, a measure taken by Republican and Democratic governors in numerous states including Arizona, Iowa, Indiana, Maryland, and Texas. Greg Gianforte’s running mate, Kristen Juras, called these common-sense measures “socialism” and said, “I suspect this will be challenged in court.”
Once again, Montanans are getting a front row seat to what a Gianforte/Juras administration would look like. In the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis, Kristen Juras won’t stand with Montanans, even in the face of a public health crisis, and the shockwaves it sends through the economy. Ten days ago, Montana unemployment was up 1,700% from the week prior, and the numbers continue to rise. Gianforte must clarify whether he agrees with Juras that Montana working families don’t deserve protection from eviction and utility cancellation.
“In Montana, we band together during times of crisis – we don’t stand idly by as our neighbors, suddenly without paychecks, are thrown out of their homes and into the streets,” said MDP Chair Robyn Driscoll. “Unlike Gianforte, most Montanans can’t afford several other houses to live in if they are evicted. It’s unconscionable that a radical Gianforte/Juras administration would side against Montanans during a national public health emergency.”
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