Missoula, MT – Representative Ron Marshall, a Republican from Ravalli County, announced his resignation from the Montana House of Representatives, effective at noon on Monday. Marshall, who had served in the Legislature since 2021, made the decision after expressing frustration over what he described as the overpowering influence of lobbyists and the inability of the public to have a meaningful impact on the legislative process.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Marshall stated, “The corruption is more than I can stand. Lobbyists run this country.” He elaborated on his decision in interviews with reporters, explaining that after his experiences in the Capitol, he no longer believed the system was responsive to the needs of the public.
“You know, why fight? You can’t fight the machine,” Marshall said. “You’re up against the monster, and you’re standing in the belly of it right now.”
Marshall, who owns vape shops in Ravalli County and Belgrade, was particularly disillusioned by the handling of two vaping-related bills. He had sponsored House Bill 149, which sought to separate vaping products from tobacco regulations and restrict their sale to locations where minors are prohibited. However, the bill was voted down on the House floor. In contrast, House Bill 525, which would require vaping products to be approved by the state and apply a tobacco tax to nicotine-containing vape products, passed a House committee by a unanimous vote.
Marshall strongly opposed HB 525, believing it would harm small businesses like his own and unfairly benefit larger tobacco companies. Last month, he filed a federal lawsuit claiming that major tobacco companies had violated a 1998 settlement agreement with the state by lobbying against HB 149 and in favor of HB 525. However, a U.S. district judge ruled that Marshall did not have the standing to seek an injunction in the case.
In his resignation announcement, Marshall criticized the lack of support he received from political leadership and the limited influence of lawmakers who do not align with corporate interests. “I’ve got two people up here that I trust right now,” he said. “What would you do if you were in my shoes?”
Marshall represented House District 87, which includes the town of Victor, and was serving as the chair of the House Human Services Committee at the time of his resignation. His departure leaves the district without representation, and it remains unclear how long it will take to fill the vacancy.
In a statement, the House Republican Caucus thanked Marshall for his service, acknowledging his advocacy for his constituents. “Since his election, Representative Marshall has been a strong advocate for his constituents, and we appreciate his contribution to the Legislature,” the statement read.
The process for filling the vacancy will now begin with the Ravalli County Republican Central Committee, which is tasked with nominating three candidates to replace Marshall. The Ravalli County Commission will then select one of these candidates to serve in his place. Under state law, when the Legislature is in session, the vacancy must be filled within 15 days.
Marshall’s resignation has brought renewed attention to the growing influence of lobbyists and the challenges faced by lawmakers who seek to prioritize the interests of their constituents over powerful corporate interests. The appointment of his successor will likely offer a glimpse into the future of legislative dynamics in Montana as the state grapples with questions of corporate influence, public interest, and the role of elected officials.
