A candidate for the Helena city commission has stirred controversy after leaving a voicemail for Republican U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy in July, in which she expressed a strong desire for him to suffer from pancreatic cancer and “die in the street like a dog.” The incident garnered national media attention after the National Review published a report on the message on Monday.
Haley McKnight, one of four candidates competing for two seats on the nonpartisan Helena City Commission, admitted to leaving the voicemail during an interview with Montana Free Press. She described her remarks as a product of “justified rage” over the senator’s political actions, particularly in relation to healthcare policies affecting millions of Americans.
The voicemail was reportedly left on July 1, as Congress was advancing the Trump administration-supported One Big Beautiful Bill Act. In her message, McKnight passionately criticized Sheehy for stripping health care from 17 million Americans. She went on to state, “God forbid that you ever meet me on the streets, because I will make you regret it,” concluding with a profane dismissal.
Despite the intense language used, McKnight clarified that she does not harbor wishes for actual harm against the senator, asserting her comments were not intended as threats. “I’m a firebrand. I’m gonna say what I think. It might not always be polished, but it’s always gonna come from the heart,” she explained, emphasizing her commitment to fighting for her beliefs and constituents.
While ballots for the city commission election are primarily cast by mail, McKnight noted that 32% had been returned by the previous week, raising the stakes in the already heated election. She also suggested that the recent release of her voicemail was politically motivated, alleging that she has since received numerous death threats.
In response, a spokesperson for Senator Sheehy stated that his office only recently became aware of the voicemail and had reached out to law enforcement. “We hope Ms. McKnight gets the help she clearly needs,” the spokesperson commented.
The situation highlights the increasingly polarized political landscape and the emotional responses it can provoke, as candidates and constituents navigate the challenges posed by political discourse. McKnight’s willingness to express her passionate views, despite the fallout, reflects a larger trend of individuals advocating fiercely for their beliefs in today’s political climate.