Endorsements
Brad Johnson, Former Chairman, Montana Public Service Commission & Secretary of State
My old friend Conrad Burns used to say, “The worst way to die is to be talked to death, so keep it brief, Johnson.” I intend to do exactly that.
I enthusiastically endorse Jeff Pattison for the Montana Public Service Commission, District 1. I have known Jeff for many years and have always found him to be a reasoned and reasonable person—one who takes the time to truly understand the issues.
As a former PSC Commissioner, I am convinced that Jeff will make decisions based on the evidence before the Commission, while maintaining his commitment to ensuring utility services remain affordable, reliable, and sustainable. At the same time, he understands that utilities are entitled to a fair return on investment, and he recognizes that commissioners are bound by that “pesky darn thing called the law.”
I am absolutely convinced that both the people of Montana and the Montana PSC will be well served by Jeff Pattison’s election to this body.
Sincerely,Brad JohnsonFormer PSC Chairman & Secretary of State
Randy Pinocci 2018-2026 Public Service Commissioner, District 1
I proudly and fully endorse Jeff Pattison to succeed me as PublicService Commissioner for District 1.
Over the past several years, Jeff has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to public service. He has attended countless Public Service Commission meetings, gaining deep insight into the issues facing Montana’s ratepayers, utilities, and energy infrastructure. We have spoken regularly—often several times a week—discussing policy, constituent concerns, and regulatory challenges.
Jeff’s extensive experience in the Montana Legislature further strengthens his qualifications. He understands how laws are made, how agencies operate, and how to advocate effectively for Montanans.
Jeff Pattison is prepared, knowledgeable, and ready to serve. I urge District 1 voters to support him in the upcoming election.
Sincerely,Randy Pinocci2018-2026 Public Service Commissioner, District 1
Gary Wiens
4700 12th St. NE
Great Falls, MT 59404
Letter of Endorsement for Jeff Pattison
I am writing to offer my strong and unequivocal endorsement of Jeff Pattison for the State Public Service Commission.
As a long-time representative of Montana’s consumer-owned electric cooperatives, I worked closely with Jeff in the Montana Legislature on many issues of concern to the state’s utility industry.
In my personal interactions with him at the state capital, I found Jeff to be a man of solid integrity, proven judgment, and deep commitment to public service. As a former legislator, he brings a clear understanding of how public policy is shaped and the responsibility that comes with serving the public interest. During his tenure as a lawmaker, Jeff proved himself to be a listener, who asks the right questions, with ability to quickly get a firm understanding of complex matters.
As a rancher, he understands firsthand the realities facing working families, small businesses, and rural communities that depend on reliable and affordable utility services.
Jeff’s knowledge of the state’s electric industry, in particular, sets him apart as exceptionally well qualified for this role. As an electric cooperative member-owner, he understands that utilities exist to serve the people—not the other way around. He appreciates the importance of thoughtful, balanced regulation that ensures utilities remain financially sound while keeping consumers’ interests squarely in view and never neglected.
Jeff Pattison’s experience, character, and practical understanding of utility regulation make him an excellent choice for the Public Service Commission. I am confident he will approach this position with fairness, independence, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people of our state.
I enthusiastically recommend Jeff Pattison for the State Public Service Commission.
Sincerely,
Gary Wiens
Recently Retired CEO
Montana Electric Cooperatives’ Association
Tony O’Donnell, Former Montana Public Service Commissioner
As someone who has served Montana both on the Public Service Commission and in local government, I know firsthand how decisions made at the PSC ripple through every household, farm, and business in our state. That’s why I am proud to endorse Jeff Pattison for Public Service Commissioner, District 1.
Other commissioners and leaders have rightly praised Jeff’s deep knowledge of the PSC process, his legislative experience, and his commitment to fair, reliable utility oversight. I want to add another perspective: Jeff understands the fiscal realities that ordinary Montanans face. Rising property taxes, wasteful spending, and shortsighted energy mandates threaten the affordability of living and working here. Jeff has consistently shown that he will fight for ratepayers’ wallets, not government growth.
During my time on the Commission, I saw how local policies—from zoning to energy regulation—can quietly drive costs higher. Jeff Pattison has the rare ability to connect those dots. He knows that affordable energy, responsible resource development, and efficient government spending are not separate issues—they are the backbone of Montana’s fiscal future. His priorities of defending consumers from unnecessary rate hikes, strengthening rural infrastructure, and expanding natural gas access prove he is ready to deliver practical solutions.
Jeff also realizes that Montana’s energy must be sufficient, reliable and available, rather than allowing ideological mandates to destabilize our grid. The catastrophe resulting from Montanans inability to heat our homes in our famous minus 45 degree weather is unacceptable. That kind of common-sense leadership is exactly what Montanans need at the PSC.
I have spent years warning about policies that burden taxpayers and erode local control. Jeff Pattison is prepared to meet those challenges head-on. He will ensure that the PSC remains a guardian of affordability, reliability, and transparency—not a rubber stamp for costly experiments.
For these reasons, I wholeheartedly endorse Jeff Pattison. He is the right choice to protect Montana families, seniors, and small businesses from runaway costs while keeping our energy future strong and competitive.
Sincerely,
Tony O’Donnell
Former Montana Public Service Commissioner