politicsconservative
Montana Politicians Start 2026 Campaigns with Big Cash Advantage
Montana, USATuesday, February 10, 2026
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Senator Steve Daines kicks off the year with almost $5 million in ready cash, while Representative Ryan Zinke holds close to $3 million. Together they lead comfortably over their Democratic opponents, who collectively have just about $129 000.
2026 Cycle Totals
- Daines
- 2025 receipts: ~$4.5 million
- 2026 total: $8.1 million
- Committee contributions: ~$1.2 million
- Authorized transfers: ~$1.07 million
2025 spend: ~$1 million
- Zinke
- Last year receipts: $4.1 million (¼ from authorized transfers)
- 2025 spend: ~$2 million
- Ending cash: ~$680 000
Democratic House Races
| Candidate | District | Receipts | Spend | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russ Cleveland | 1 | ~$200 000 | ~$158 000 | ~$48 000 |
| Matt Rains | 1 | ~$114 000 | — | ~$46 000 |
- Missoula entrants: Sam Forstag & Ryan Busse (former governor‑candidate) joined in January 2026; first FEC reports due April.
Senate Race Challenges
Six challengers have filed against Daines:
- 5 Democrats + 1 Republican
- Top fundraiser: Reilly Neill – ~$147 000 raised, ~$136 000 spent (after Daines).
Historical Context
The 2024 battle between Jon Tester and Sen. Tim Sheehy was far more expensive:
- Last quarter 2023: Tester spent $7.1 million, Sheehy $2.3 million.
- Total 2024 spend: $126 million (Election Day).
- Outside groups added another $162 million, setting a state record.
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