Montana’s 2024 Elections: A Republican Sweep with Surprising Democratic Gains
In the 2024 Montana elections, Republicans achieved a significant victory, securing the governorship, both U.S. Senate seats, and maintaining majorities in the state legislature. Incumbent Republican Governor Greg Gianforte was re-elected, defeating Democratic challenger Ryan Busse. In the U.S. Senate race, Republican Tim Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and businessman, unseated three-term Democratic Senator Jon Tester, marking the first time since 1911 that both of Montana’s Senate seats are held by Republicans. (apnews.com, apnews.com)
Despite the Republican dominance, the state legislature witnessed unexpected Democratic gains. In the House of Representatives, Democrats increased their seats by 10, reducing the Republican supermajority. Similarly, in the Senate, Democrats gained two seats, ending the Republicans’ veto-proof majority. (en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org)
This shift was largely due to a coalition between moderate Republicans and Democrats, which played a pivotal role in the 2025 legislative session. This bipartisan alliance successfully blocked conservative GOP leaders’ attempts to politicize the judiciary and advanced key measures such as Medicaid expansion, increased teacher pay, and enhanced healthcare funding. (apnews.com)
The coalition’s resilience was evident as GOP leaders censured nine moderate senators and withdrew their support. However, these lawmakers remained steadfast, continuing to support Democratic initiatives. This dynamic underscores Montana’s unique political tradition of bipartisanship and libertarian values, even amid national trends toward increasing partisanship. (apnews.com)
Governor Gianforte expressed support for the moderates’ rights to represent their constituents, highlighting the state’s historic inclination toward mixed-party leadership. This approach has preserved avenues for bipartisan cooperation, as seen in past successes like establishing Indigenous People’s Day. However, the longevity of this cooperative spirit remains uncertain in the face of growing national polarization. (apnews.com)
Montana’s 2024 Election Outcomes and Legislative Shifts:
- Montana Republicans dominated the 2024 election. How did Democrats gain power at the statehouse?
- Republican Tim Sheehy defeats 3-term incumbent to flip Montana US Senate seat
- AP Race Call: Republican Greg Gianforte wins reelection for governor in Montana
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