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Montana's 2020 election
Montana's 2020 election
The Montana Free Press guide
Republican for Public Service Commission
(Lost in June primary)
Deschamps, of Missoula, runs a political consulting company. He is a Marine Corps veteran and a former chair of the Montana Republican Party.

Key coverage in the race for Public Service Commission

Race profile: Six candidates vie for three Public Service Commission seats

With one incumbent seeking reelection and two open seats, November's election will bring new leadership to the troubled regulatory agency at the heart of Montana’s energy politics
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Campaign finance

No campaign finance data compiled for this race at this time.


On the issues

Issue statements were solicited from active candidates via a written questionnaire before the June primary election. Answers were lightly edited for punctuation and spelling.

How would you assess the performance of the current Public Service Commission?

I believe they are dealing with the issues that come before them.

Utility regulation is highly technical work that involves complex legal and engineering issues. What experience do you have that makes you confident you’ll be able to effectively parse detailed briefing materials and fairly evaluate competing arguments from business representatives and environmental advocates?

I have a BS in business management. I understand the complexities of business.

In addition to energy companies, the PSC regulates telephone companies, garbage haulers and passenger motor carriers. There has been some discussion in recent years about adding hospital oversight to the commission’s responsibilities as well. Do you think the PSC has appropriate regulatory scope?

I do not, however, the final decision will be made by the state Legislature.

Do you think the current Public Service Commission has placed appropriate weight on climate change considerations?

I do. The climate changes every day. The PSC has to make decisions based on the ever changing demand for energy.

Do you think the current Public Service Commission has placed appropriate weight on preserving the economic benefits of coal generating plants in Colstrip and Sidney?

I do.


Stay tuned for more

We'll be updating this page with new information through Election Day in November 2020.

Have ideas about additional coverage that would be helpful as you consider your vote? Tell us at edietrich@montanafreepress.org.