State Senator Joe Balyeat admits Howie Rich is "main one" bankrolling Montanans In Action

Montanans In Action is the front group sponsoring CI-97, CI-98, and I-154. It has steadfastly refused to disclose its donors.

But in a recent debate, Montana State Senator Joe Balyeat finally admitted that real estate mogul Howie Rich of New York is the key funder.

Yellowstone Public Radio Debate
"Montana Initiative 154"
September 21, 2006
7-8:30 P.M.

Moderators: Jackie Yamanaka, Yellowstone Public Radio
Jim Gransbery, Billings Gazette

Proponent: Senator Joe Balyeat, Chairman of Yes I-154 (Protect Our Homes Montana)
Opponent: Bruce Farling, Property Owners Against I-154

The entire program can be heard by going to the Yellowstone Public Radio website, and scrolling down to the I-154 Program.

TRANSCRIPT:

Time: 1:09:51

Bruce Farling: I don't think it's asking too much for the people who are funding a campaign, who are going to change the bedrock legal institution of this state, the Constitution in two measures and I 154 in law, to divulge who they are…Let's say who's funding this thing. What's so difficult about that?

Time: 1:11:34

Senator Joe Balyeat: Jackie (Yamanaka), if I could get back to the question Bruce just addressed. Again these individuals, the main one Bruce (Farling) has already mentioned by name on this program…ok.

Bruce Farling: That's Howard Rich, real estate developer from New York City.

Senator Joe Balyeat: That's right.