Mike Yakawich is one of Montana’s newest Republican senators, but already one of its most extreme. Elected to the state Senate in 2024 after serving on the Billings City Council and in the Montana House, Yakawich has used his platform to target LGBTQ+ Montanans, oppose non-discrimination protections, and push anti-inclusion legislation aligned with the far-right.
But things are shifting in Billings. Yakawich won by just 8 points in 2024, and his district is now trending blue. Urban voters, students, and young families have begun rejecting his brand of extremism. Democrats are gaining ground. The electorate is diversifying. And Yakawich’s politics are falling further out of step.
He may not face voters again until 2026—but his campaign starts now. And so does ours.
He is exposed. He is extreme. He is beatable.
Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Family Record
Co-sponsored HB 359 to ban drag performances in public spaces, including schools and libraries.
Co-sponsored HB 361 to protect misgendering and deadnaming of trans students in schools.
As a Billings City Council member, voted against a nondiscrimination ordinance protecting LGBTQ+ residents.
Has never supported a single LGBTQ-inclusive bill.
Built a record aligned with far-right efforts to erase LGBTQ+ Montanans from public life.
A Dangerous Anti-Choice Agenda
Consistently voted with anti-choice Republicans in the House and Senate.
Supported post-Roe abortion bans with no exceptions for rape or incest.
Backed 2025 efforts to further restrict abortion access and fund anti-abortion “crisis pregnancy” centers.
Aligned with groups pushing for total abortion bans.
Out of step with voters in his district, who have rejected anti-choice initiatives.
Culture War Over Community
Focused on far-right social legislation over core local issues like housing, health care, or jobs.
Prioritized targeting trans students and blocking local LGBTQ protections.
Ignored pressing community needs in favor of divisive national culture war agendas.
Increasingly out of step with a district that supports inclusion and practical solutions.
Key Vulnerabilities
Won his 2024 Senate race by just 8 points in a competitive, shifting district.
Represents urban Billings precincts that supported Sen. Jon Tester and local equality measures.
Voters are younger, more diverse, and increasingly reject far-right politics.
Has never faced a high-turnout election as a senator—2026 will be his first.
