JD Vance Rallies for Republican Candidates in Montana

Vice President JD Vance traveled to Belgrade, Montana, on Monday to endorse Republican candidates Aaron Flint for the 1st Congressional District and Kurt Alme for the U.S. Senate. Speaking at a hangar at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Vance urged supporters to prioritize sovereignty and domestic energy production over Democratic environmental policies, which he characterized as the "green new scam."

Vance drew parallels between Montana and his Rust Belt upbringing to promote an "America first" ethos, touting the Trump administration's tax policies and criticizing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He specifically campaigned for Flint, who is currently trailing Democratic challenger Sam Forstag by four points according to an Emerson College poll. The visit is part of a wider Republican strategy to flip the U.S. House of Representatives, following recent trips to the state by President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Other Republican officials joined the rally to frame the election as a choice between common sense and Democratic policies. Governor Greg Gianforte warned that "the crazy is coming back" if Democrats regain control of Congress, while Senator Steve Daines endorsed Alme after withdrawing from the 2026 Senate race. Representative Ryan Zinke added warnings regarding communism and the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran. Approximately 200,000 Montanans have already cast their ballots via mail.