In sad news marking the end of an era, Pat Williams, a dedicated New Deal-style Democrat and Montana’s longest-serving congressman, has passed away at the age of 87 in Missoula.
See the tweet below!
For nearly two decades, he served as Montana’s longest-serving representative in the U.S. House, championing progressive values that jarred with conservative principles held by many Montanans.
Williams served as Montana’s representative in the U.S. House from 1979 to 1997, bringing progressive ideals deeply influenced by his upbringing in resource-dependent Montana.
His stance on opposing conservative measures like constitutional amendments against abortion and flag desecration certainly set him apart in a state that often takes a more right-leaning approach.
For many, Williams encapsulated the liberal agenda, supporting organized labor and favoring government intervention to aid those struggling.
He notably championed the National Endowment for the Arts, even as calls for defunding the NEA grew stronger.
Williams was never one to shy from a challenge, facing down political pressure with resilience.
“A clean environment … has been and will be an absolute cash register for this state,” Williams once asserted, reflecting his belief in environmental stewardship’s economic potential.
“He believed government could be a force for good, and that culture, wilderness, and education were not luxuries — but rights,” Williams’ family said.
Williams’ advocacy extended beyond the halls of Congress.
After leaving office, he returned to Montana to teach at the University of Montana, reflecting his belief in education and community service as catalysts for societal transformation.
Despite opportunities in Washington D.C. post-retirement, he preferred service and teaching, betting on the long-term benefits that education and fairness would yield.
Williams was related to daredevil Evel Knievel, tying him to Montana’s grit and resilience.
His formative years in Butte helped shape his belief in the strength and spirit of the working class, ideals he carried into his political career.
Williams’ impact was recognized across the political spectrum, marked by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte’s tribute to his efforts to find common ground in Washington.
His ability to ask and entertain tough questions from the press further showcased his respect for democratic processes.
“Pat especially was someone who did not mind tough questions. In fact, he expected you to ask tough questions, he understood the role of the press, and to contrast that with the kind of response politicians are giving to journalists these days, it’s like night and day. And I say that with great regret,” declared Montana Public Radio News Director Emerita Sally Mauk.
Williams lied in state at the Montana State Capitol in Helena, a testament to his enduring influence and respect.
His life and service will be honored in Missoula, celebrating a legacy rooted not just in politics, but in tireless community advocacy and progressive values that he held dear, despite an often oppositional world.
Congressman Pat Williams knew the press had a right – and an obligation – to ask tough questions, and he always answered them without obfuscation and without taking offense. Besides his innate integrity, he was an exuberantly warm and kind man. RIP to a great Montanan. pic.twitter.com/4Oqvv43gJw
— Sally Mauk (@sallymauk) June 26, 2025
