Montana’s political landscape just shifted in a big way after Republican Sen. Steve Daines announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. The two term senator formally withdrew his name from the state’s Senate candidate filing on the final day candidates were allowed to enter the race, catching many political observers off guard.
Daines has represented Montana in the Senate since 2014, after previously serving a term in the House of Representatives. Over the years he built a reputation as a reliable conservative vote and a strong ally of President Trump. His decision to step aside now makes him the sixth Republican senator who has chosen not to run again in the upcoming midterm cycle.
The timing of the announcement raised eyebrows because it came at the last possible moment before the filing deadline closed. That move could have significant political consequences. By waiting until the final hours to withdraw, Daines effectively limited the time Democrats had to recruit and organize a strong candidate for the race.
Immediately after stepping aside, Daines threw his support behind Kurt Alme, the current U.S. attorney for the District of Montana and a Trump appointee. Alme filed his candidacy just minutes before the deadline expired, ensuring Republicans would still have a candidate ready to compete for the seat.
Alme previously served as Montana’s U.S. attorney during President Trump’s first administration from 2017 to 2020 and was appointed again to the role earlier this year. His background as a federal prosecutor and his ties to the Trump administration are expected to play a central role in the campaign.
President Trump quickly weighed in on the race, offering his full endorsement of Alme and praising Daines for his years of service.
“Steve Daines, of Montana, is one of our truly Great United States Senators,” President Trump wrote in a statement. He noted that Daines served 12 years in the Senate and two years in the House before deciding to “pass the torch” to Alme.
Trump also highlighted Alme’s legal career and conservative credentials, calling him a “highly respected criminal prosecutor” and a “distinguished Harvard Law School Graduate.” The president said Alme would fight to grow the economy, cut taxes and regulations, support farmers and ranchers, and strengthen border security.
“Kurt Alme is an exceptional person, and will do a fantastic job as your next United States Senator from the Great State of Montana,” Trump added.
Alme has also received endorsements from Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and Sen. Tim Sheehy, signaling strong support from the state’s Republican leadership.
With Montana historically leaning Republican in federal races, Democrats will still try to contest the open seat. However, the late timing of Daines’ exit could complicate their efforts to mount a well organized campaign.
For now, Republicans appear to be lining up behind Alme as the candidate they hope will keep Montana’s Senate seat firmly in the GOP column.
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