Pat Williams (Montana politician)

Pat Williams (born October 30, 1937) is an American politician from Montana. He served as a U.S. Representative for Montana's 1st congressional district from 1979 to 1997.

Williams was born in Helena, Montana. He received his B.A. from the University of Montana in 1961 and his M.A. from the same institution in 1962. Prior to his congressional career, he served in the Montana House of Representatives from 1967 to 1969 and the Montana Senate from 1969 to 1979.

During his time in Congress, Williams was known for his focus on education, conservation, and Native American issues. He served on the House Education and Labor Committee and the Interior and Insular Affairs Committee. He was a strong advocate for Pell Grants and other forms of financial aid for college students. He also played a key role in the establishment of the National Bison Range and other conservation efforts in Montana.

Following his retirement from Congress in 1997, Williams has remained active in public life. He has served as a visiting professor at the University of Montana and has been involved in various political and civic organizations. He has also written extensively on Montana history and politics.