Story perspectives

GOP Deadline Tactics Clear Field for 2026 Senate Races

9/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. parties are manipulating filing deadlines to influence 2026 Senate races.
Incumbent Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) suspended his campaign minutes before the filing deadline.
Kurt Alme filed for the Montana Senate seat minutes after Daines withdrew, clearing the field.
The Republican National Senatorial Committee reportedly encouraged Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) to enter the Senate primary.
Alaska Sen. Dan S. Sullivan (R-Alaska) faces teacher Dan J. Sullivan, accused of voter confusion.

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Story summary

U.S. parties are manipulating filing deadlines to influence 2026 Senate races.
Incumbent Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) suspended his campaign minutes before the filing deadline.
Kurt Alme filed for the Montana Senate seat minutes after Daines withdrew, clearing the field.
The Republican National Senatorial Committee reportedly encouraged Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) to enter the Senate primary.
Alaska Sen. Dan S. Sullivan (R-Alaska) faces teacher Dan J. Sullivan, accused of voter confusion.