Buttigieg Endorses Independent Candidate in Montana Senate Race

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has endorsed Seth Bodnar, an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate in Montana, marking a notable alignment from a prominent Democrat with an independent nominee.

Buttigieg stated that Bodnar, a former University of Montana president and Green Beret, possesses the character to serve Montana effectively in the Senate. "The best leaders I've served with, in uniform and in government, care more about getting the job done than about who gets the credit, and Seth is one of them," Buttigieg wrote in a statement. "Seth and I don't agree on everything, but he has spent his adult life serving this country and the next generation... and he'll bring that same character to the Senate on behalf of all Montanans."

Montana is one of several states, including Nebraska, South Dakota, and Idaho, where some Democrats are choosing to back independent candidates for Senate races this year. This strategy is seen by some as a means to increase the chances of unseating Republican incumbents.

Bodnar faces competition from Democratic candidate Alani Bankhead, an Air Force veteran who won her primary in June. Bankhead has reportedly resisted pressure to withdraw from the race to create a clearer path for Bodnar. She has alleged that individuals within the Democratic Party attempted to persuade her to end her campaign, a claim the party denies, according to ABC affiliate KWYB.

The presence of both Bodnar and Bankhead in the race could potentially divide votes among Democrats and those dissatisfied with Republicans, complicating efforts to unseat the Republican nominee, Kurt Alme. Alme, a former U.S. Attorney for Montana, is seeking to win the seat being vacated by retiring Republican Sen. Steve Daines.

Alme has emphasized his experience, stating at a recent rally, "I'm ready to step up again to make our lives more affordable, make our communities safer, and protect our Montana way of life. And unlike my liberal opponents, I have the experience to get it done."

Buttigieg, who has been actively campaigning for Democratic candidates, has increasingly involved himself in races across the country. While he has acknowledged considering a presidential bid in 2028, he stated his current focus is on the midterm elections and supporting Democrats in 2026.

Bodnar expressed his honor at receiving Buttigieg's support, stating, "Montanans have always voted for the person, not the party, and they want a senator who will put their families, jobs, and public lands ahead of partisan games in Washington. I'll answer to Montana, and I'll work with anyone who's willing to do the same."