WalletHub Bumps Montana from Top Patriotic Spot

Montana, we have a problem.

WalletHub’s “Most Patriotic States” list in 2024 put the Treasure State at the top. Before, we slipped to its second spot this year. Yep. Second. Behind Virginia. And before you say “it’s only one spot,” let me remind you: this is Montana we’re talking about. We don’t take freedom second to anyone.

Yes, we still fare better than 48 other states, and yes, second is still a fine thing. But come on. We have more veterans per capita than any other state in the nation. We killed it in voter turnout. In fact, 46 percent of eligible voters came out for the primaries. We are second only to Nebraska in the nation for jury duty. Most Montanans volunteer, and we have more American flags strapped to our pickup trucks than the rest of the nation.

So what gives?

Blame Virginia. They have all the Revolutionary War stuff, big military installations, and more George Washington mentions than a fifth-grade history book. That was enough to tip the scale.

But Montana held the line. We are still out here, doing the work. AND, with fewer people. Patriotism is a lifestyle in the 406. It smells of gunpowder, burgers, and that one dude in your neighborhood who lights the wrong end of the firework.

So fine, Virginia. The crown is definitely up for grabs this year. We’ll be right here celebrating the Fourth as we always do... With fireworks, freedom, and somebody certainly setting their lawn on fire with a Roman candle.