10/19/2026
Thoughts on Kyle Austin & Alani Bankhead forum in Billings
When was the last time you watched politicians in the same race answer questions without attacking each other with hostility?
What I just watched was absolutely refreshing. Alani & Kyle answered questions in a manner of respect and dignity I have not seen yet in this election.
Who do you think set the bar high tonight? It wasn’t Kyle nor Alani it was the gentleman who gave the opening speech before the Pledge of Allegiance. This gentleman addressed what it meant to be an American & Montanan from his perspective. I could understand the pain in his tone and it’s because of all the division and hate that has spread across the United States & Montana.
How did the forum go after the pledge of allegiance? Well, Alani & Kyle answered questions respectfully the whole time. They didn’t show emotion at each other or point fingers. They disagreed on things. It was wonderful. It was honest politics.
Why is this forum that Kyle & Alani answered questions at so important to watch? It’s because the dialogue spoken here tonight gives us a glimpse of hope that politics can be informative and a place where we can work on policies that helps us, not divide us. To bring together thoughts, not hatred.
Where does this put you, the voter? For me, Alani won my vote early on in this race and she has not disappointed. Every interview, forum, debate, and conversation she has remained consistent with her message not only that she has also grown her platform as she meets with more Montanans across the state. Alani is her and she needs your vote, give America hope.
“We are the solutions to the problems that we face” -Alani Bankhead
