Pete Buttigieg Backs Independent Seth Bodnar in Montana Senate Race
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg endorses independent Senate candidate Seth Bodnar in Montana, challenging the Democratic nominee.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has officially thrown his support behind independent candidate Seth Bodnar in the Montana Senate contest, according to an announcement from the Bodnar campaign on Friday.
Buttigieg, who is viewed as a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race, praised Bodnar’s background in a formal statement. He noted that the best leaders he has worked with in both military and government roles prioritize results over recognition, identifying Bodnar as a person of that caliber.
While acknowledging that they do not share identical views on every issue, Buttigieg highlighted Bodnar’s lifelong commitment to public service. He pointed to Bodnar’s tenure as an Army Green Beret and his leadership at the University of Montana as evidence of the character he would bring to the Senate for the people of Montana.
Bodnar expressed gratitude for the endorsement, stating he is honored to have the support of the former Secretary and proud to see a coalition forming across the political spectrum. The 47-year-old candidate, a Rhodes scholar and former top-ranked West Point graduate, has pledged to remain independent and not caucus with either the Democratic or Republican parties if elected.
The race features a crowded field, with Bodnar competing against Democratic nominee Alani Bankhead and Republican nominee Kurt Alme. The vacancy arose following the unexpected decision by Republican Senator Steve Daines to forgo a reelection bid just before the March filing deadline.
Montana remains a reliably Republican state, and the presence of both Bodnar and Bankhead on the ballot has sparked concerns that they may split the non-Republican vote. Consequently, some have urged Bankhead to withdraw from the race to improve Bodnar’s chances against Alme.
Bodnar’s platform, which emphasizes affordability, anti-corruption measures, and political independence, has gained traction among some voters. Meanwhile, the Republican party is actively campaigning, with President Trump hosting a rally in the state last week for Alme and congressional candidate Aaron Flint, and Vice President JD Vance scheduled to visit next week.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
