FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2026

MCV endorses Ryan Busse for Montana’s First Congressional District

(HELENA, Mont.) — Today, Montana Conservation Voters (MCV) proudly announced its formal endorsement of Ryan Busse in the primary for Montana’s First Congressional District.

The endorsement highlights Busse as the most experienced conservation champion in the field, citing his lifelong record of fighting for Montana’s public lands, clean air, and clean water. As a dedicated outdoorsman and former industry executive, Busse has spent decades on the front lines protecting the state’s outdoor heritage and ensuring that public access remains a right for all Montanans, not just the wealthy few.

“Montana needs a representative in Congress who’s spent a lifetime defending our outdoor way of life,” said MCV Action Fund Board Chair Jill Lombardi. “Ryan Busse is the most experienced conservation champion in this race. Whether it’s fighting for our public lands or ensuring our children have clean air to breathe and clean water to drink, Ryan has shown he has the backbone to stand up to special interests. We are proud to support him in this primary.”

At a time when Montana’s public lands face increasing pressure from development and privatization, the seat for the First Congressional District is critical to ensuring the federal government remains a partner in conservation. Busse’s platform is built on the foundation that Montana’s economy and identity are inseparable from its environment.

“I’m honored to earn the endorsement of Montana Conservation Voters, a trusted voice for protecting our lands, waters, and outdoor heritage. MCV has long championed conservation and leaders who put Montana first,” said Busse. “This election is pivotal. So much is on the line, and it will take all of us working together to defend these values and win.”

Busse’s history with MCV is extensive, including service on the Board of Directors from 2008 to 2013 and a term as Board Chair from 2010 to 2012. A nationally recognized champion for public lands, his advocacy was forged in the fight against the Bush Administration’s plans to drill in the sacred Badger-Two Medicine area. Busse’s commitment to Montana’s environment is a family legacy; his two sons were plaintiffs in the historic Held v. Montana climate case. This firsthand experience with the fight for constitutional environmental rights uniquely positions Busse as Montana’s leading advocate for energy freedom and a clean, healthful future.

Montana Conservation Voters works to protect Montana’s natural resources and outdoor way of life while defending the democratic values that allow communities to shape their future. Endorsement decisions are made by the MCV Action Fund committee.