Story perspectives

Trump-backed Alme wins GOP primary; Bankhead clinches Dem nomination

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme entered the race minutes before the filing deadline after Sen. Steve Daines withdrew, receiving an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
Kurt Alme won the Republican primary with about 77% of early vote, while Alani Bankhead secured Democratic nomination with roughly 44%, beating Reilly Neill's 33%.
Seth Bodnar submitted over twice the required signatures, leading Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen to review his filing this summer.

History

Historical Context

Donald Trump announced his presidential bid in June 2015, joining a Republican field that grew to 17 candidates by March 2015 and securing the nomination after his May 3 2016 Indiana win. His media exposure and endorsements—such as a 45% fundraising boost for Steve Daines—have made tight filing deadlines and signature battles, like those in Montana’s Senate race, a hallmark of today’s electoral scrutiny.

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Story summary

U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme entered the race minutes before the filing deadline after Sen. Steve Daines withdrew, receiving an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
Kurt Alme won the Republican primary with about 77% of early vote, while Alani Bankhead secured Democratic nomination with roughly 44%, beating Reilly Neill's 33%.
Seth Bodnar submitted over twice the required signatures, leading Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen to review his filing this summer.

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