Republican Tim Sheehy’s campaign reports that his bid for the Montana Senate seat against incumbent Democrat Jon Tester is gaining momentum, describing it as the “strongest position.” Media reports reveal that Sheehy’s campaign successfully raised $2.45 million in the fourth quarter, including a notable $450,000 in personal contributions, leaving them with nearly $1.3 million in cash reserves.
As a former Navy SEAL participating in a pivotal Senate race that could sway control of the chamber, Sheehy expressed confidence that his campaign is intensifying as the election approaches. Grateful for the support from “America First” conservatives, he declared to national media outlets, “We’re in the strongest position and the only candidate who can retire Jon Tester in November.”
Sheehy’s fundraising track record includes $2.2 million in donor contributions and an additional $650,000 in personal contributions and loans during the third quarter. The candidate highlighted the financial backing as a sign that voters are eager to replace a career politician with someone who can address economic concerns, combat inflation, and secure the southern border.
Acknowledging potential challenges from liberal elites, Sheehy emphasized the need to persevere in the face of what he anticipates to be the most expensive race per vote in history. He remains committed to defeating Tester, reclaiming the Senate, and “saving America.”
An internal memo circulated among select donors underscored the resonance of Sheehy’s military background with voters and noted the possibility of primary competition from Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont. The memo highlighted Rosendale’s vote to oust former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy in 2023.
In response to the heightened competition, Tester’s campaign reported raising over $5.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, with strong grassroots support from Montanans contributing to nearly 15,000 donations.
“The strength of this campaign comes from the grassroots support of Montanans across the state, and they continue to show they are ready to fight to keep Jon Tester in the United States Senate,” Montana for Tester campaign manager Shelbi Dantic said in a press release.
Dantic a former lobbyist was named Tester’s campaign manager in 2023, Tester has taken heat for the hire since he had previously condemned lawmakers that hire lobbyists and said “the revolving door is going to stop with me.”
The political landscape took a turn when the Cook Report, an “independent, non-partisan” election forecaster, shifted the Senate race from “Lean Democrat” to “Toss-Up,” heightening the stakes in this closely watched contest.
