Republican Kurt Alme Wins Montana U.S. Senate Seat

Republican Kurt Alme won the election for the U.S. Senate seat in Montana on November 3, 2026. The Associated Press declared Alme the winner at 2:54 a.m. EST, marking the first time in five decades that this specific seat was open. Alme, a former state budget director and U.S. attorney for Montana, will replace Republican Senator Steve Daines, who withdrew from the race in March and endorsed Alme.

Alme secured victory over Independent candidate Seth Bodnar and Democrat Alani Bankhead. The non-Republican vote was split between Bodnar, a former University of Montana president who finished in second place, and Bankhead, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel. Bodnar conceded the race, noting that the campaign proved an Independent could compete with major parties.

President Donald Trump endorsed Alme during the campaign, praising his "the highest level of aptitude and talent." In a victory speech, Alme stated, "Starting right now, my job is simple," and pledged to fight for community safety, affordability, and the "Montana way of life."