(The Center Square) – Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and his wife, Susan, purchased a historic home in Helena for $4 million and will donate it to the state, the governor’s office announced this week.
The governor and first lady will use the Samuel T. Hauser House as their primary residence. The move comes after the Montana Department of Administration recommended the couple move out of the state Governor’s Residence in 2021 after “paused repairs” because of mounting inflation and supply chain issues.
“Susan and I are fortunate to have achieved the American dream, and with that, we believe we have an obligation to give back,” Gianforte said in a statement. “To whom much is given, much is expected.”
Gianforte during his time as a U.S. representative was often reported as among Congress’ most wealth members. In 2020, he reported income of $184 million over a decade, the Associated Press reported. According to OpenSecrets, Gianforte, who founded a software company, had an estimated net worth of $189,334,335 in 2018.
“We purchased the beautiful and historic Hauser House to call our home here in Helena, and to provide a space for the people of Montana to come together,” the governor added. “Following my service, we will donate this home to the State and the people of Montana.”
The governor’s office said he’s “committed to ensuring future First Families have a governor’s residence that is in good repair, safe, healthy, and family-friendly, all while ensuring the state is a good steward of taxpayer resources.”
