Story perspectives

Trump-backed Flint, Sanders-backed Forstag Win Montana Nomination

6/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The June 2, 2026 primaries produced the Republican and Democratic nominees for Montana’s 1st Congressional District, the first non-baby-boomer House race in three decades.
Flint secured endorsements from U.S. President Donald Trump, Ryan Zinke and Greg Gianforte.
Sam Forstag received endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and American Federation of Government Employees.
The Cook Political Report rates the District race likely Republican, though Democrats see the seat as winnable.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 Republican Revolution, spurred by Newt Gingrich’s Contract with America, gave Republicans a 54-seat House gain and the first congressional majority since 1952, reshaping national politics under President Bill Clinton; that realignment underlies today’s 2026 Montana 1st District primary between Trump-backed Matt Flint and Bernie-backed Sam Forstag, a test of the GOP’s evolving strategy.

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Story summary

The June 2, 2026 primaries produced the Republican and Democratic nominees for Montana’s 1st Congressional District, the first non-baby-boomer House race in three decades.
Flint secured endorsements from U.S. President Donald Trump, Ryan Zinke and Greg Gianforte.
Sam Forstag received endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and American Federation of Government Employees.
The Cook Political Report rates the District race likely Republican, though Democrats see the seat as winnable.

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