TL/DR –
Tim Sheehy, a businessman and former Navy SEAL, has won the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate in Montana, securing 75.5% of the votes counted, setting him up against the Democratic incumbent, Senator Jon Tester, in November. Sheehy’s campaign raised $2.1 million between April 1 and May 15, including $600,000 the candidate lent himself, while Tester raised $4.1 million and has $11.7 million cash on hand. Republicans believe that Tester, first elected in 2006, is vulnerable this election and plan to use President Biden’s unpopularity in the state against him, while Democrats criticize Sheehy as a wealthy transplant who is driving up housing prices in Montana.
Ex-Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy Wins Montana’s GOP Primary
Former Navy SEAL and businessman Tim Sheehy claimed victory in Montana’s Republican primary for U.S. Senate on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, paving the way for a November face-off with current Senator Jon Tester, a Democrat.
Sheehy led comfortably with 75.5 percent of the votes, trailed by former Montana secretary of state, Brad Johnson who managed 18 percent, while Charles Walkingchild accounted for 6.5 percent.
The primary had been predictable since February when Representative Matt Rosendale withdrew from the race, citing former President Trump’s endorsement of Sheehy. Sheehy’s win represents a significant victory for Republicans, who aim to regain control of the Senate.
“Tim Sheehy is an American hero, a strong conservative, and a successful businessman that will bring a fresh perspective to Washington,” said Senator Steve Daines, the head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
Sheehy to Combat Tester in November
Sheehy’s notable opponent is Tester, an incumbent with strong local backing. Recent polls indicate a close race, with the non-partisan Cook Political Report labeling Montana a “tossup.” Tester officially captured the Democratic nomination the same day.
In a recent post, Tester acknowledged his competition with Sheehy, expressing confidence in his victory.
Tester leads in terms of campaign funding, with $11.7 million cash on hand, as per recent financial statements. Sheehy’s campaign has raised $2.1 million within the same period, with $2.2 million cash on hand.
Republicans are optimistic about Tester’s vulnerability in this election, characterizing his working-class narrative as less persuasive to Montana voters. They plan to link Tester to President Biden’s unpopular policies within the state.
Democrats responded by scrutinizing Sheehy’s biography, criticizing the wealthy businessman’s move to Montana a decade ago, which they believe contributes to the state’s rising housing prices.
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