Patrick Sullivan

Patrick Sullivan (Democratic Party) is running for election to the Montana House of Representatives to represent District 75. Sullivan is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. Sullivan advanced from the Democratic primary on June 2, 2026.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a former state employee and university professor. I am also a single parent who raised my kids and three of my grandchildren on a single income. My credentials including my doctorate are in public administration. I am passionate about preserving and enhancing our democracy. As a Navy veteran, I continue to honor my oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic. I come from working class background and have had many different jobs over the years.

I have lived in Montana since 1978 and in Jefferson County since 2013.

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?

Our democracy must be preserved. The greatest threat to democracy is messages that claim that there is widespread voter fraud. If people lose faith in the integrity of our elections, our republic will be in deep trouble. It is also vital that confidence in our free press is upheld. When everything becomes "fake news" and those who disagree are seen as the enemy, we are sunk. I favor more localized news and no corporate meddling with journalismAffordability is a major concern. Families need to be able to afford to provide for their needs. It makes no sense to have so many people struggling and, at the same time, more billionaires. People need access to health care, food, and a quality education for all. Corporations need to be held accountable for the number of their employees that need to rely on any form of public assistance.I am an avid supporter of public education. We need to remember that the main reason we created a public school system is for the preservation of democracy and to provide adequate opportunities for our young people. We need to fund our schools more adequately and pay teachers much better than we do. I oppose any public money going to private schools. I favor seeking ways for two-year colleges to be funded sufficiently so that anyone may attend. The jobs of the 21st century will demand that we have more people education in technical and trade skills.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about addressing the role of money in our politics. Right now, our government is excessively controlled by the very wealthy. This has resulted in extreme wealth inequality. It has also resulted in the interests of the average citizen being ignored.

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

Integrity and honoring my word

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

To represent the interests of their constituency and to educate the public when further information is needed by them.

What legacy would you like to leave?

As a person who kept his word and a lifelong learner

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

Picking tobacco. About a month

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

Supporting my family on a single income

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

collegial

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

Water issues and climate change

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Of course it is

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

No one yet

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

Election of John F. Kennedy