The Montana Shooting Sports Association (MSSA) has released its 2024 candidate grades and endorsements, crucial for pro-gun voters in the upcoming November General Election. Each grade reflects a candidate’s commitment to protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (RKBA).

Key Races and Endorsements:

• U.S. Senate: Tim Sheehy (R) received an AQ rating and endorsement, while Jon Tester (D) was rated F.
• U.S. House: Ryan Zinke (R) and Troy Downing (R) were both endorsed, receiving B and A grades, respectively.
• Governor: Greg Gianforte (R) earned an A and MSSA’s endorsement.

Attorney General: Austin Knudsen (R) also received an A and endorsement.

These ratings are based on thorough tracking of legislative votes and candidate questionnaires. For incumbents, the Montana Shooting Sports Association used historical voting data, while new candidates were graded based on their responses to MSSA’s questionnaire. Those who did not respond or have no voting record were marked with a “?” indicating potential hostility towards RKBA.

Why These Ratings Matter: MSSA’s grading system provides gun owners with clear insights into which candidates are likely to support their rights. This election is pivotal in maintaining our freedoms. Voters are urged to support pro-gun candidates and ensure they are registered to vote.

A Call to Action:

There are thousands of Montana gun owners and hunters who are not registered to vote. Voter registration is easy. Just ask your county elections office or visit the website of the Montana Secretary of State. Please check on all of your gunny friends and acquaintances to make sure they are registered to vote. Freedom is not free. It is a participatory endeavor.

To preserve our RKBA, it’s imperative that pro-gun advocates rally behind candidates who have demonstrated their commitment to our rights. Spread the word among your fellow gun owners, ensure voter registration, and let’s secure a pro-gun victory in November.

For detailed candidate ratings and more information, visit the Montana Shooting Sports Association 2024 Grades page.

About Gary Marbut

Longtime Montana political observer and participant Gary Marbut is president of the Montana Shooting Sports Association, the primary political advocate for Montana gun owners.