Democratic Senator Jon Tester’s reelection campaign announced that it raised an impressive $5 million in the second quarter of 2023, setting a new record for non-election year fundraising. This considerable amount of funding comes after Tester gained a new Republican challenger in former Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy.
Sheehy, who is supported by National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines and endorsed by Governor Greg Gianforte, poses a challenge to Tester’s bid for reelection. However, Tester’s fundraising success highlights the strong support he enjoys among Montanans.
According to NBC News, Tester’s campaign account at the close of the quarter had a substantial $10 million. The campaign emphasized that the funds raised between April and June represented the highest second-quarter total for a non-election year in Tester’s political career.
Campaign manager Shelbi Dantic expressed gratitude for the financial support, attributing it to Montanans’ recognition of Tester’s unwavering commitment to their values. Dantic said, Montanans from all 56 counties donated to Jon Tester because they know he relentlessly fights for our Montana values every day. From our rural communities to Indian Country to our cities and towns, Montanans are fired up to keep the dirt farmer from Big Sandy in the United States Senate.
Despite the challenge presented by Sheehy, the Cook Political Report rates Tester’s Senate seat as lean Democratic going into 2024. This indicates that Tester is still favored to retain his seat, reflecting his popularity among Montanans.
Montana voters hold a favorable opinion of Tester, with an approval rating of 42%. This level of approval is notably higher than that of other Democratic senators, including Joe Manchin, Sherrod Brown, Bob Casey, Tim Kaine, Jacky Rosen, and Tammy Baldwin, who all fell short of 34% in the same category.
Tester’s successful fundraising efforts position him well for his reelection campaign and underscore the robust support he enjoys within Montana. As the 2024 elections approach, all eyes will be on Montana’s Senate race to see if Tester can once again secure victory and continue to represent the interests of Montanans in Washington, D.C.
