Senator Steve Daines from Montana pulled a surprise move by deciding not to run for a third term. This announcement, made just minutes before the state filing deadline, adds him to the list of Republicans leaving Congress this year.
Daines, who is 63 years old, had already taken steps for another campaign but changed his mind at the last moment. After backing Montana’s U.S. attorney, Kurt Alme, to take his place, Daines confirmed his decision only after the deadline had passed. Daines praised Alme for addressing crime and tackling fentanyl trafficking, highlighting his commitment to the community.
Alme, who filed his candidacy paperwork just eight minutes before the deadline, shared his vision for Montana. He emphasized the need for leaders who uphold the rule of law and fight for the state’s values. His message resonated with many, as he positioned himself as a staunch advocate for both Montana and former President Trump.
Trump backed Alme on social media, calling him exceptional and endorsing him based on Daines’ recommendation. This endorsement strengthens Alme’s position as the front-runner for what is now an open Senate seat.
Daines first entered Congress in 2013, moving from the House to the Senate in 2014. His initial victory came under unusual circumstances when his Democratic opponent dropped out late in the race. Daines won re-election in 2020 amid a growing Republican trend in Montana, a state that has historically sided with both parties but leaned more Republican in recent years.
Polling data shows a significant shift: Trump won Montana by about 20 points in 2020. This trend continued with Senate races, as Democratic Senator Jon Tester lost his re-election bid by 7 points in 2024. Since Tester’s win in 2018, Democrats have struggled to secure statewide victories.
Alme’s campaign now faces criticism from independent candidate Seth Bodnar, a military veteran. Bodnar accused Daines of disrespecting Montana voters by choosing a successor without giving them a fair chance to choose. This reflects a broader sentiment that many voters are frustrated with political insiders making decisions behind closed doors instead of allowing for a democratic process.
As for the Democrats, four candidates have already declared their intentions to run for the Senate seat. These include former state representative Reilly Neill and Air Force veteran Alani Bankhead, along with two others with diverse backgrounds.
The political landscape in Montana is evolving. With the shifting dynamics of party control and the growing frustration among voters, this upcoming election will likely be one to watch closely.
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