The first debate between Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy and Democratic incumbent Sen. Jon Tester took place in Montana, where Sheehy portrayed himself as an outsider who moved to the state to start a business. Concerns were raised about wealthy newcomers driving up property taxes, with Tester calling Sheehy “part of the problem” in contributing to a housing shortage. The balance of power in the Senate could be affected by the outcome of this contest, as Republicans need to gain only a few seats in the November election to retake the majority.
Sheehy placed blame on Democrats for the economic pressures faced by many households, criticizing Tester and President Joe Biden for not doing enough to address inflation. He highlighted his move to Montana in 2014 to raise a family and start a business in Bozeman, emphasizing his commitment to creating jobs in the state. Economic issues are expected to play a central role in the Senate race, with property taxes and rising costs adding to political tensions that could influence the election’s outcome.
Tester, a moderate in Washington, has historically attracted support from independent voters in Montana, where Republicans currently control every statewide office except for his Senate seat. Sheehy has sought to align Tester with President Biden, particularly in relation to issues like immigration. The candidates also clashed on abortion, with Sheehy opposing the procedure except in cases to save the mother’s life or in cases of rape or incest, while Tester emphasized a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body.
Sheehy has invested significant personal funds into his campaign and received substantial donations, with a household net worth between $72.9 million and $255.9 million. Tester has raised $37 million and outside groups have also contributed to both candidates. Issues like immigration, abortion, and economic policies are expected to be key factors in the race, as both candidates present their platforms to attract voters in Montana.
Tester emphasized his bipartisan work in passing legislation to help veterans exposed to toxic burn pits and stimulate U.S. production of computer chips. He acknowledged the need for more action on immigration, while also supporting abortion rights as a personal decision for women. A proposed initiative to add abortion rights to the state Constitution could further elevate this issue in Montana, following a national trend stemming from the U.S. Supreme Court’s rulings on abortion protections. The outcome of the Senate race in Montana could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in Washington.
