John Looney Sr.

John Looney Sr. served in the U.S. Army starting in 1993. His career experience includes working as a business owner and president. As of 2024, Looney Sr. was affiliated with the Montana Bail Agents Association and the National Association of Bail Agents.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a military veteran, lifelong Montanan, homeschool father and grandfather, and owner of Bad Boy Bail Bonds and Montana Pretrial Services, LLC. I serve as President of the Montana Bail Agents Association, Executive VP of the National Association of Bail Agents, and sit on the Lewis and Clark County Citizens Advisory Council. With 30+ years navigating Montana's criminal justice system and running small businesses across the state, I bring real-world experience — not career politics — to HD-81.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I am a citizen candidate — not a career politician. Montana's founders envisioned a legislature of working people who serve, then go home. I will do exactly that. My background as a veteran, business owner, and homeschool father gives me the perspective HD-81 families need: someone who lives under the laws he helps write.Montana's natural resources belong to Montanans. Government bureaucracy has crippled our ability to develop and benefit from our own land, minerals, and energy. I will fight to remove those barriers so that Montana's wealth works for Montana families — reducing the tax burden without raising new taxes.Montana's courts have become too insulated from accountability, substituting judicial policy preferences for the will of elected legislators. I support meaningful judicial reform — including greater transparency in judicial selection, stronger accountability measures, and constitutional amendments that limit the ability of courts to override the democratic process on matters the legislature has already decided.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Criminal justice reform: I work daily with defendants, courts, and law enforcement and believe Montana's bail and pretrial system must be strengthened, not weakened. Natural resource sovereignty: Montana's land and resources must work for Montanans, not federal regulators. Education freedom: as a homeschool father, I am committed to parental rights in education. Fiscal responsibility: government should live within its means and stop growing at citizens' expense.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Montanans for Limited Government

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

John J. Looney Sr. is a dedicated Montanan with a distinguished history of service to the country and community. Raised amidst the rugged beauty of Montana, Looney absorbed early the values of diligence, respect for nature, and community solidarity. His service journey commenced with the US Army in 1993, where he served with distinction in the 3rd Ranger Battalion. His military tenure, marked by leadership and dedication, seamlessly transitioned into a role as a military police officer, further deepening his commitment to law enforcement and justice. Moving into civilian life, Looney emerged as a successful entrepreneur, steering Bad Boy Bail Bonds to new heights and bolstering the local economy. Now, as a candidate for the Montana House of Representatives, District HD82, Looney envisions a Montana enriched with prosperity, safety, and opportunity for all its citizens, underpinned by values of integrity, leadership, and Montana's enduring spirit.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

"Service and Leadership": With a rich background as a U.S. Army Ranger and law enforcement officer, John Looney epitomizes a life dedicated to service and leadership. He brings to the table an unwavering commitment to serve and lead with integrity, poised to effectively champion the interests and values of Montanans in HD82."Economic Prosperity and Community Support": As an astute business leader, Looney is well-versed in the economic challenges and prospects facing Montana. He is dedicated to driving economic growth, championing local enterprises, and securing opportunities for Montanans to prosper."Advocacy for Secured Bail and Public Safety": With extensive experience in law enforcement and as an advocate for Secured Bail, Looney is deeply committed to promoting fairness in the justice system, bolstering law enforcement, and enhancing the safety of Montana's communities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

John J. Looney Sr. holds deep passion for several public policy arenas, notably:

Economic Development and Small Business Support: He fervently advocates for policies that foster a nurturing environment for small businesses, driving Montana's economic prosperity.

Public Safety and Judicial Reform: Looney is committed to ensuring community safety and advocating for judicial reforms that render the criminal justice system more equitable and efficient.

Education and Family Empowerment: A staunch supporter of educational freedom and school choice, Looney champions policies that provide families with diverse educational options and support, ensuring access to quality education tailored to individual needs.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Beyond my family, I've always admired Ronald Reagan for his leadership, vision, and ability to communicate core conservative values in a way that resonated with so many Americans. His example of principled leadership and his steadfast belief in the greatness of our country are qualities I strive to embody in my own life and political career.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I recommend "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. This book emphasizes the importance of selfless leadership, a principle that deeply resonates with my approach to politics and service.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, leadership, and a commitment to service are paramount to me. Drawing from my military and law enforcement background, I emphasize the importance of honesty, accountability, and leading by example. It’s essential for an elected official to understand and respect the community they serve, ensuring actions and decisions always benefit the public.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Growing up in Montana, working on ranches, and participating in sports like hockey and rodeo taught me the values of hard work, teamwork, and resilience. These experiences, combined with a lifelong commitment to service and community, have equipped me with the leadership skills, determination, and empathy necessary to be an effective representative for the people of Montana.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Representing my constituents' interests faithfully, advocating for policies that enhance our community's well-being, and ensuring transparency and accountability in governance are core responsibilities. I also see fostering economic growth, supporting education, and ensuring public safety as fundamental duties.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I'd like to leave a legacy of positive impact—improving public safety, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of education in Montana. I want to be remembered as someone who dedicated their life to the service of others, making Montana a better place for future generations.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first significant historical event I remember was the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster in 1986. I was 11 years old, and it was a sobering moment that highlighted both the risks and the courageous pursuit of exploration and discovery. It taught me the importance of resilience and the pursuit of greater goals, despite the challenges we face.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was a true Montana experience—working on a local ranch, where I stretched miles of barbed wire and spent long days and nights in a combine. It was hard, rewarding work that taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of agriculture to our way of life. Later, I worked at the local gas station, pumping gas and washing windows for customers, a job that instilled in me the significance of service and community interaction.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is "Brite and Fair," a nod to the values and tales that shaped my childhood, along with the Thornton Burgess books about forest animals. These stories filled my early years with a sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I'd choose Roland Deschain from Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" series. His steadfastness, loyalty, and determination in the face of adversity are qualities that resonate with me, both personally and politically. Like Roland, I aim to be unwavering in my principles and commitments, navigating the complexities of leadership with a focus on the greater good for Montana.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond. It's one of those classic tunes that, once you hear it, sticks with you for days. It's also a great reminder of the power of music to bring people together.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Balancing my professional ambitions with personal and family time has been a struggle. My commitment to service and community engagement often requires sacrifices, but I continually strive to find that balance, ensuring I am present and supportive for my family.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

A collaborative and respectful relationship, where both parties work together for the state's best interests. Open communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to service should ground this cooperation.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Economic development, public safety, education reform, and healthcare accessibility are the greatest challenges. I am committed to tackling these through informed policy-making and innovative solutions.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experience in government or politics is valuable, but diverse perspectives can enrich legislative decision-making. A balance between experienced legislators and newcomers with fresh ideas is ideal.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absolutely. Building relationships with other legislators is crucial for fostering bipartisanship and effective governance. It helps in understanding different viewpoints, leading to more comprehensive policy solutions.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

My current focus is wholly on serving the people of District HD82. Making a tangible difference at the state level is my priority, though I remain open to future opportunities to serve my community and state.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Speaking with a local veteran struggling with the healthcare system deeply affected me, reinforcing my commitment to improving veterans' services and healthcare access. Such stories motivate my service and policy goals.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

The legislature should play a role in overseeing and granting emergency powers to ensure they are used judiciously and transparently. Oversight maintains democratic checks and balances, especially in crises.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

My first bill would aim to enhance support for small businesses, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering growth. This reflects my commitment to economic prosperity for all Montanans.

What committees interest you?

Committees related to veterans' affairs, economic development, public safety, and education interest me the most. My background equips me uniquely to address the challenges and opportunities in these areas.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I hold financial transparency and government accountability in the highest regard. They are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring resources are used efficiently. I advocate for strong oversight mechanisms and making information accessible to keep the public informed.