Southwest Montana News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) delved into the impact of cartels on Indian Country in Montana during a House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations hearing. The hearing featured Montana’s own Jeffrey Stiffarm, President of the Fort Belknap Indian Community, and Bryce Kirk, Tribal Executive Board Member of the Fort Peck Tribes, as witnesses.

According to Rosendale, "The impact of international cartels on my home state, particularly on the tribes in my district, is immeasurable." He further expressed concern about the rising levels of addiction and crime in the region, stating, “We are witnessing a distressing surge in addiction and crime, reaching unprecedented levels in the Treasure State.”

Rosendale also took the opportunity to address his colleagues across the aisle, hoping that the hearing would serve as a wake-up call regarding the effects of President Biden's open border policies. He emphasized, "I hope this hearing will be a wake-up call to my colleagues across the aisle, helping them to recognize the unconscionable effects of President Biden's open border policies. These policies have clearly not only impacted border communities but are felt across our entire nation."

The discussion during the hearing shed light on the significant challenges faced by Indian Country in Montana due to the activities of international cartels. Rosendale's remarks highlighted the urgent need to address these issues and work towards finding solutions to combat the negative impacts on tribal communities.