1. United States
2. Mont.
3. Letter

I am writing as a Montana constituent to express my outrage over the killing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota and the deeply misleading public statements made by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in its aftermath. Secretary Noem’s claim that she is unaware of peaceful protesters carrying firearms is plainly untrue. In Montana, firearms are a normal and lawful part of everyday life. Hunters, ranchers, and farmers rely on them for land management, livestock protection, and survival. Peaceful protesters here are often legally armed, and denying that reality is dishonest and dangerous. This makes the federal response in Minnesota especially alarming. A civilian was killed during a protest, followed by rhetoric that dismisses lawful armed protesters altogether. I am also troubled by the glaring double standard: January 6 participants — many armed and engaging in unlawful conduct — have been described as “heroes” by some officials, while peaceful protesters elsewhere are met with deadly force and false narratives. Why are these situations treated so differently? I urge you to act immediately by: • Calling for a full, transparent investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti • Supporting the defunding of ICE until meaningful accountability and reform are achieved • Publicly requesting the resignation of Secretary Kristi Noem for spreading demonstrably false statements • Speaking truthfully about the long-standing reality of lawful firearm use at peaceful protests It is your duty as our Congressman to represent Montana — not a political party. Montanans expect independence, honesty, and moral courage from our leaders. Be brave. Do the right thing. That is the tradition of this state. That is what Montana values demand. I expect clear answers and decisive action.