President Donald Trump on Wednesday endorsed former federal prosecutor Kurt Alme to run for the U.S. Senate seat in Montana following the announcement that Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) will not seek reelection this November.
Trump praised Alme in a post on Truth Social, describing him as a highly respected prosecutor who served in his administration and graduated from Harvard Law School. According to Trump, Alme has the experience and determination needed to uphold law and order, support law enforcement officers, and advocate for members of the military and veterans.
The president also outlined the priorities he believes Alme would pursue if elected. Trump said Alme would focus on strengthening the U.S. economy, cutting taxes and regulations, supporting farmers and ranchers, and promoting American manufacturing. He added that Alme would work to expand domestic energy production, maintain a secure southern border, address migrant crime, and defend Second Amendment rights.
Trump characterized Alme as an “exceptional” candidate and expressed confidence that he would serve Montana effectively in the Senate. He also noted that Daines had played a major role in supporting Alme’s candidacy and described the senator as someone who had performed his duties with distinction. According to Trump, Daines effectively chose to “pass the torch” to Alme after deciding not to run again.
In addition to Trump’s endorsement, Alme has reportedly gained support from other Republican leaders in the state, including Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and Sen. Tim Sheehy.
Trump’s endorsement came shortly after the deadline to file for the Senate race had already passed. During Trump’s presidency, Daines had recommended Alme for the position of U.S. attorney for Montana. Alme was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in September 2017 and served in that role until December 2020.
After leaving the Justice Department, Alme continued working in Montana government and policy circles. He served as Gov. Gianforte’s state budget director before later becoming executive vice president at the National Christian Foundation.
In comments to the Daily Montanan, Alme said he believes the policies implemented during Trump’s presidency helped advance public safety and strengthen support for law enforcement. He said Washington needs leaders who are willing to stand firmly behind their principles and deliver results for their constituents.
Alme said his campaign would focus on advocating for Montana’s interests while supporting the broader “America First” agenda championed by Trump.
Meanwhile, Daines announced his decision not to seek reelection in a video posted to social media. He said the choice came after considerable reflection about his future and career.
Before entering public office, Daines spent nearly three decades working in the private sector. While he described those years as meaningful, he said serving in government had been even more rewarding. Daines added that he remains optimistic and energized about what lies ahead.
The Montana senator is one of several lawmakers opting not to run for reelection in the upcoming midterm elections.
His announcement followed news that Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) also plans to retire from Congress. Zinke, a former Navy SEAL, revealed that he has undergone several surgeries since early 2023 that have limited his ability to participate fully in House votes. He said additional medical procedures are expected in the future.
Zinke explained that stepping down would ensure Montana continues to have full representation in Congress rather than risk prolonged absences due to health issues. He and Trump have endorsed Montana radio host Aaron Flint as a potential successor.
In a separate development on Capitol Hill, Senate Republicans blocked a resolution that would have restricted the president’s authority to conduct military operations in Iran. The proposal, introduced by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), sought to require congressional approval for continued military action.
After several days of speculation about whether any Republicans might support the measure, the Senate ultimately voted it down. Only Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) joined Democrats in backing the resolution, while Sen. Jon Fetterman (D-Pa.) was the lone Democrat to oppose it.
