Fighting Fraud in the 406

James Brown, Montana State Auditor

James Brown was elected Montana’s State Auditor on November 5, 2024, winning by a 22-point margin. He leads the agency protecting Montana’s insurance and securities consumers and serves on the Board of Land Commissioners to support education funding and stewardship of state trust lands. Before his election, Brown chaired the Montana Public Service Commission, where he reformed the agency and strengthened oversight of major industries. A fourth-generation Montanan from Dillon, Brown is a University of Montana graduate with law degrees from Seattle University and the University of Washington. Drawing on his background as a small business owner and attorney, Brown is devoted to safeguarding consumers, supporting fair markets, and promoting responsible state management.

Kaitlyn Wenzel, Policy Analyst & Public Outreach Coordinator

Kaitlyn Wenzel currently serves as the Policy Analyst and Public Outreach Coordinator for the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, where she blends policy work with public connection. She conducts in-depth research to support the Commissioner’s government affairs efforts and helps shape the agency’s positions on key legislative and regulatory issues. Beyond the Capitol, Kaitlyn leads public outreach efforts, including organizing events, giving presentations, and building relationships with communities across the state. She also assists CSI’s digital communications make complex topics clear, accessible, and engaging for all Montanans. Kaitlyn is a fifth-generation Montanan and is a proud Carroll College alum with a B.A. in Communication Studies and Catholic Studies. She is passionate about public service, striving to create meaningful connections between government and community.