Southwest Montana News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today marks the one-year anniversary of a Chinese spy balloon that invaded the skies of Montana, and Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) has released a statement expressing his disappointment in the Biden administration's handling of the situation. Rep. Rosendale states, "Today is no day to celebrate; rather, it is a day to remember how President Biden and Secretary Austin failed to protect and defend the people of Montana. One year ago today, this administration proved to us their incompetence and weakness when they allowed a Chinese Spy Balloon to collect data and valuable intel from Malmstrom Air Force Base. Not only did they refuse to attempt to take it down, but they willfully lied when they knew it was flying over American territory. That is why I introduced articles of impeachment against Lloyd Austin. He must be held accountable. Montanans will never forget the negligence of Secretary Austin and President Biden."

The incident took place on February 2, 2023, when a Chinese spy balloon infiltrated Montana's airspace. Rep. Rosendale has been vocal in his criticism of the Biden administration's response to the situation. He sent a letter to U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on February 3, 2023, demanding a briefing on the matter and calling for the immediate removal of the balloon. Rep. Rosendale also honored Billings Gazette photographer Larry Mayer on March 15, 2023, for capturing some of the first images of China's spy balloon.

As the one-year anniversary approached, Rep. Rosendale called for the Biden administration to hold a town hall for Montanans to demand answers and transparency. He believes that the administration lied to Congress and the American people regarding the Chinese spy balloon that flew across Montana skies. Rep. Rosendale's frustration led him to officially submit articles of impeachment against U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd James Austin on January 9, 2024. He accuses Austin of failing to uphold his oath of office by allowing the Chinese high-altitude balloon to fly over North American airspace unimpeded for an extended period.

Rep. Rosendale's unwavering dedication to holding the Biden administration accountable for their handling of the Chinese spy balloon incident is evident in his statements and actions. Montanans will not forget the negligence displayed by Secretary Austin and President Biden, and they demand answers and transparency regarding this breach of security.

It remains to be seen how Rep. Rosendale's call for impeachment will be received and if any further action will be taken. The anniversary of the Chinese spy balloon serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting national security and the need for swift and decisive action in the face of potential threats.