Troy Downing for United States Representative - District 2
Republican
By Denise Rivette
Montana Independent News posed the same four questions to all candidates in the United States Representative race in District 2. Republican Troy Downing’s views are presented in their entirety below.
What are the Montana values that will guide your decision-making?
As a congressional candidate and a proud Montanan, the values that will guide my
decision-making are deeply rooted in the principles and way of life that define our great state. We cherish our independence, our rugged individualism, our deep sense of
community and the great outdoors. These core values are the foundation of my
campaign and will steer every decision I make.
I believe in personal responsibility and the power of hard work. Montanans have a long tradition of self-reliance, and I will fight to ensure that the federal government respects our ability to manage our own affairs without unnecessary interference.
I am committed to preserving our natural heritage. Montana’s vast landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the plains, are not just a source of beauty but also a crucial part of our identity and economy. I will work tirelessly to promote responsible natural resource management, ensuring that we can utilize our resources while preserving them for future generations.
Finally, honesty and integrity are non-negotiable. Montanans expect their leaders to be straightforward, transparent and accountable. I am committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and being a trustworthy representative for all Montanans. These principles are not just words; they are the foundation of who we are and how we thrive in the Last Best Place.
What skills, knowledge and experience do you possess that make you the better candidate?
I bring a diverse and robust set of skills, knowledge, and experiences that uniquely qualify me to represent our great state. Here’s why I believe I am the best candidate:
Business Acumen and Entrepreneurship:
I have a strong background in business, having founded and led successful companies, created jobs, and made payrolls. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the economic challenges and opportunities both small and large businesses face, as well as the effect poor government policy can have on industry.
I know what it takes to create jobs, manage budgets, and navigate complex regulatory environments. My goal is to foster a thriving business climate in Montana, ensuring our economy remains vibrant and robust. There are many candidates in this race that have not run a successful business and have never even received a paycheck that didn’t come from taxpayer money.
Veteran and Leadership Experience:
As a U.S Air Force combat veteran, I went to war for this country and know what it means to sacrifice and serve. My military service has given me a strong sense of duty, discipline, and leadership.
I understand the sacrifices our service members make. I am committed to ensuring they receive the support and respect they deserve. In today’s uneasy world—with conflicts raging in Ukraine and Israel and the threat of China looming in the background—my experience in the military equips me with a unique perspective on international affairs and national security. I understand the complexities of global conflicts and the importance of a strong, well-prepared military.
I recognize that Congress has neglected its constitutional role in declaring war, often
passing this critical responsibility to the executive branch. I am determined to claw back this authority to the legislative branch, ensuring decisions of war and peace are made with the full and deliberate input of our elected representatives, as the framers of our constitution intended. I also believe it is important to have members of Congress who know what war looks like.
What are your top priorities to address during your term if you are elected?
My top priorities are shaped by the pressing issues that impact our state and nation. Here are the key areas I will focus on during my term if elected:
Reducing Inflation and Government Spending:
One of my first priorities is to tackle inflation and ensure responsible government spending. Montanans are feeling the pinch of rising prices on everyday goods and services all while the government continues to run up its tab, which is estimated to reach close to thirty seven trillion dollars by the time I take office.
This is unacceptable. It is essential to address this issue head-on. I will work to reduce government spending. I will promote fiscal policies that encourage economic stability and growth. By cutting wasteful spending and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently, we can help lower inflation and ease the financial burden on hardworking families.
Securing our Borders:
I recently visited the border with a retired two-star general from the Army National Guard—Major General King—who brought the first troops to the southern border after the request for assistance in 2017. It is an absolute mess down there. There is so much that could be done that just isn’t happening and it is completely unacceptable. Ensuring the security of our borders (North and South) is crucial for the safety and well-being of all Americans. I will advocate for strong border security measures to prevent illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. This includes bringing back a Title 42 type policy that was effective under the Trump administration in keeping illegal immigrants on the southern side of the border. I will also advocate for expanding resources for the Border Patrol to ensure they have the tools and manpower needed to effectively secure our borders.
Supporting Agriculture and Rural Communities:
Agriculture is the backbone of Montana’s economy. Supporting our farmers and ranchers is a top priority. I will advocate for policies that provide stability and growth opportunities for our agriculture sector. This includes ensuring access to markets, reducing regulatory burdens, and supporting innovation and sustainability in farming practices. Congress continues to kick the can down the road on the farm bill. We need to update it to ensure it is robust and effective and supports our farming and ranching industries and communities.
What legislative language would you propose or support to address those priorities?
On Reducing Inflation and Government Spending:
Spending Cap Legislation:
I would propose legislation that sets a cap on annual federal spending increases, tied to inflation and population growth, to ensure that government spending remains within sustainable limits.
Audit and Eliminate Wasteful Programs Act:
This bill would mandate a comprehensive audit of all federal agencies to identify and eliminate wasteful, redundant, or ineffective programs, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.
On Securing our Border:
Border crossing denial:
I would propose legislation to stop immigrants south of the border unless/until they obtain legal entry.
Border Security Enhancement Act:
This bill would allocate additional funding to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for hiring more agents, upgrading technology and improving physical barriers at critical points along the border.
Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act:
This legislation would include measures to modernize the immigration system with a merit-based approach that prioritizes skilled workers, strengthens penalties for illegal immigration and human trafficking, and streamlines the immigration system to reduce backlogs and improve efficiency.
Supporting Agriculture and Rural Communities:
Farm Support and Stability Act:
This bill will provide assistance to farmers and ranchers affected by market fluctuations and natural disasters. It would also fund research into sustainable farming practices and new agricultural technologies.
Rural Infrastructure Improvement Act:
This legislation will allocate federal funds to improve infrastructure in rural areas, including expanding broadband access, repairing roads and bridges and upgrading water systems.