How a Montana Governor Used a Branding Iron to Veto Controversial State Legislation

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Brian Schweitzer, the 23rd governor of Montana, was known for his unconventional political style and populist approach. During his two terms, he famously used a literal branding iron to sign vetoes against bills he deemed unconstitutional, while maintaining high approval ratings and managing record-breaking state fund balances.

Born in 1955, Brian Schweitzer brought a background in international agronomy and soil science to the governor's office, having worked on irrigation projects across Africa, Asia, and Europe. After an unsuccessful 2000 U.S. Senate bid, he was elected governor in 2004 and re-elected in 2008 with over 65 percent of the vote. His administration was characterized by a blend of progressive policies and libertarian-leaning economic populism, often accompanied by his Border Collie, Jag, at the state Capitol.

Schweitzer was a prolific user of the veto, exercising the power 95 times during his tenure. In April 2011, he gained national attention for using a branding iron to mark his rejection of Republican-led legislation, including measures that would have rolled back medicinal marijuana access and restricted abortion. Despite these clashes, he oversaw a period of significant fiscal health, with average ending fund balances reaching $414 million, compared to the $54 million average seen in the eighteen years prior to his term.

His policy focus extended to education and industry. He signed the 2005 Indian Education for All funding law and implemented initiatives that led to Montana seeing the fastest growth in the share of residents holding college degrees between 2009 and 2012. Additionally, he championed energy expansion, supporting both fossil fuels and wind projects like the Rim Rock Wind Farm. After leaving office in 2013, he transitioned into the private sector, serving as the non-executive chairman of the Stillwater Mining Company.

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