Group Resurfaces Amid Probe into Campaign Dealings

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A conservative group that faded away after a Montana judge ruled it disregarded state campaign laws appears to be back.

Lee Newspapers of Montana reports American Tradition Partnership recently sent out emails seeking donations and blasting environmentalists.

The group ceased activity after District Judge Jeffrey Sherlock ruled in 2012 it acted as a political committee and not the education organization it claimed to keep its donors and spending anonymous.

Commissioner of Political Practices Jonathan Motl has concluded the group, which used to be called Western Tradition Partnership, illegally contributed to and coordinated with at least a half-dozen Republican candidates in the 2012 elections.

Motl and Gov. Steve Bullock advised Montanans to be wary of the group. Motl says ATP has no mailing address, contact person or attorney.