Doug James

Well, it’s not often we get to say this — in fact, it may be the first and last time — but thank you , President Donald J. Trump. No, not for wrecking international alliances, raising our taxes through tariffs, starting an international trade war, and increasing the national deficit, but for something truly unexpected: taking Bill Mercer out of Montana’s gubernatorial sweepstakes and plunking him onto the federal bench instead.

Seriously, thank you.

Bill Mercer was shaping up to be a real contender for governor. A Republican with actual brain cells, a résumé longer than a CVS receipt, and the uncanny ability to talk policy until even the policy wonks nod off. He's been U.S. Attorney, a Department of Justice insider, and a prolific legislator (39 sponsored bills in 2025). H

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