Montana Democratic Senator Jon Tester defeated opponent Michael Hummert in the state’s Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, a fierce battle that could determine which party controls the Senate in the next election.
Tester, a three-term senator, is seeking re-election in Republican-leaning Montana, a seat seen as one of the Republicans’ biggest uptake opportunities in the 2024 election cycle.
Tester has portrayed himself as a more moderate Democrat, and in May released a memo about “Tester’s long track record of standing up to President Biden,” highlighting his apparent differences with Biden on a range of issues.
Conservative firebrand highlights Trump’s conviction in attack ad against Democratic senators
Sen. Jon Tester asked during a Senate Banking Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on Sept. 12, 2023. (Drew Ungerer/Getty Images)
Tester is a third-generation Montana farmer, but as the state’s only Democrat holding statewide office, he will face strong opposition in the 2024 election.
Tester faces opposition from former Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy, who Republican leaders see as the best candidate to challenge Tester in the general election.
Former Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy is running for Montana Senate in 2024. (Tim Sheehy of Montana)
Sheehy has the support of much of the GOP leadership, including every Montana Republican, including Sen. Steve Daines, Rep. Ryan Zinke and Gov. Greg Gianforte.
Click here to get the FOX News app
The 2024 Senate district maps show Democrats are projected to defend 23 of the 34 seats up for election in 2024, making Montana one of the most vulnerable seats for Democrats in the current race.
