U.S. Senate Hopeful Tim Sheehy Faces Scrutiny Over Remarks on Native Americans and Federal Policies
Republican Senate candidate Tim Sheehy recently found himself at the center of controversy following the surfacing of recordings in which he made remarks about the Crow Indians of Montana. During a segment with Fox News, Sheehy claimed that audio clips, which implied he made disparaging comments about the Crow tribe, had been manipulated to malign his character. “The tapes had been chopped up,” he stated, aiming to dismiss the allegations as misrepresentations (Daily Montanan).
Contradicting Sheehy’s claims, an investigation by the Daily Montanan revealed no evidence of tampered tapes. The publication confirmed that the recordings, initially released by Char Koosta News—the Flathead Indian Reservation’s official newspaper—were accurate. The tapes captured Sheehy making similar remarks on multiple occasions, suggesting a recurring theme in his speeches about the Crow people.
The recordings feature Sheehy recounting experiences on a ranch he shares with Turk Stovall, a Crow Indian. In one recording, Sheehy described attending events on the Crow Reservation, claiming, “Every one that you miss, you get a Coors Light on the side of your head.” Despite facing calls from tribal organizations for an apology, Sheehy’s campaign has yet to comment on the matter.
Throughout these public appearances, Sheehy also expressed views on various policy positions. He reiterated a debunked statement that doctors are permitted to end the lives of newborns and argued for dismantling several federal departments. Moreover, he questioned the accomplishments of his opponent, incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Tester, using derogatory language.
In addition to his comments on Native Americans, Sheehy has discussed educational reforms, advocating for the defunding of federal departments, including the Department of Education. He criticized public education as an “indoctrination factory,” advocating for a curriculum rooted in agriculture and faith.
Sheehy also shared his perspectives on federal government reforms, drawing inspiration from Iowa’s governmental restructuring under Gov. Kim Reynolds. He suggested relocating federal agencies to more relevant geographic areas to improve efficiency and understanding of local industries.
On reproductive rights, Sheehy highlighted the necessity for the Republican Party to connect better with young female voters, accusing Democrats of “indoctrination.” He repeated unfounded claims regarding abortion practices and emphasized the importance of voter reforms, advocating for traditional paper ballots and Election Day voting.
Sheehy consistently criticized Tester’s tenure, especially concerning veterans’ affairs, accusing him of inadequate support despite Tester’s role in significant bipartisan legislative efforts, such as the PACT Act. Sheehy’s speeches often included personal attacks on Tester’s appearance and commitment to veterans.
As the campaign progresses, Sheehy maintains that the Republicans must broaden their appeal to younger voters, urging the party to adapt its messaging to avoid losing their support in future elections.
This story was originally published by the Daily Montanan
