In a surprise move that stunned Montana’s political circles, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines withdrew from the 2026 Senate race just minutes before the state’s candidate filing deadline, abruptly ending his reelection bid and reshaping the field for one of the state’s most powerful offices.
Daines, a Republican who has represented Montana in the U.S. Senate since 2015, had previously signaled he intended to run for another term. But in the final moments before the filing deadline closed, he formally withdrew his candidacy, creating an unexpected opening in the race and leaving little time for additional candidates to enter.
The timing of the decision immediately drew attention across Montana political circles, as the last-minute withdrawal effectively locked in the field of candidates already prepared to file while preventing others from joining the race.
Daines said serving Montana in Congress had been the honor of his professional career, highlighting his work on tax policy, energy development, judicial confirmations, and conservation legislation during his time in Washington.
The move also opened the door for a new Republican candidate to step into the race at the final hour. Former U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme filed for the Senate seat shortly before the deadline and quickly received Daines’ endorsement.
Daines first entered Congress in 2012 when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives before winning a Senate seat in 2014. He was reelected in 2020 and had been widely expected to seek another term.
His decision to withdraw just before the filing deadline ensured that the 2026 Senate race will proceed without an incumbent on the ballot, a rare development in Montana politics that could significantly alter the dynamics of the campaign.