James is a fourth-generation Montanan who grew up in Dillon. He graduated with a double major in history and political science from the University of Montana – Missoula, and went on to earn his law degree from the Seattle University School of Law, followed by a master's degree in tax law from the University of Washington. 

James is a private practice attorney with over 17 years of experience representing Montana's farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. He has practiced before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the Federal District Court of Montana, the Montana Supreme Court, and various state district courts across Montana. Brown serves as the President of the Montana Public Service Commission, managing state employees and a budget. Previously, he worked in Washington D.C. as a Congressional Aide and clerked for the Chief Justice of the Washington State Supreme Court.

James Brown ran for the Montana Supreme Court in 2022, but did not win. 

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PSC President James Brown announces campaign for state auditor

Aims to ensure access to affordable and reliable health insurance.

Wants to ensure that Montanans living in areas subject to high wildfire risk can obtain insurance.

- Aims to ensure access to affordable and reliable health insurance.
- Wants to ensure that Montanans living in areas subject to high wildfire risk can obtain insurance.

Insurance

Aims to promote quality consumer education and fraud prevention programs for Montana's seniors.

- Aims to promote quality consumer education and fraud prevention programs for Montana's seniors.

Consumer Protection

As of June 13, 2025, James Brown’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Financial Management

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James Brown

John and his wife moved to Whitefish in 2014. They have three children and two grandchildren. He has a bachelor's degree in Finance from Ohio State University and a master's degree in finance from the University of Denver.

John most recently worked for SmartLam North America as their Chief Financial Officer, and has previously worked as VP and CFO of the Havi Group LP, as well as a Senior Director of Finance & Planning at Waste Management. 

John Repke

John Repke previously ran for a seat on the Public Service Commission in 2022, but did not win.

As of June 13, 2025, John Repke did not have a website or any information online.

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- The State Auditor of Montana is also known as the Commissioner of Securities and Insurance. This office does not function like typical state auditors who oversee public accounts; instead, it focuses on regulating the insurance and securities sectors within Montana.
- The State Auditor ensures that insurance companies, securities issuers, and related financial entities comply with state laws. This role is vital in protecting consumers and supporting the financial stability of the state.
- The State Auditor's responsibilities include licensing, auditing, and regulating all entities involved in Montana's insurance and securities industries. This oversight helps maintain a fair and lawful market environment.
- The office also plays a role in consumer protection by addressing complaints against insurance and securities entities, thus ensuring that Montanans receive fair treatment in these sectors.
- The State Auditor serves a four-year long term.

Regulates the insurance and securities industries

Montana State Auditor

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Consumer Protection

Financial Management