Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., has decided to end his Senate campaign just days after launching it, citing former President Donald Trump’s endorsement of another candidate as a pivotal factor in his decision.
Rosendale, who had planned to run for the U.S. Senate and secure both the primary and general election, stated, “However, the day I announced, President Trump then announced that he was endorsing a different candidate.”
Trump is backing political newcomer Tim Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and aerospace entrepreneur. Sheehy has also received endorsements from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, indicating strong party support.
Matt Rosendale (Credits: Roll Call)
Rosendale’s withdrawal from the race is seen as a strategic move to avoid a contentious primary that could weaken the party’s chances against Democratic Sen. Jon Tester.
In a statement, Rosendale expressed his agreement with Sen. Steve Daines, who chairs the NRSC, that stepping aside is the best path for Republicans to regain the Senate majority.
Rosendale acknowledged the challenges of his campaign, including opposition from Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell and the Republican establishment.
“By my calculations, with Trump endorsing my opponent and the lack of resources, the hill was just too steep,” Rosendale remarked.
Rosendale’s candidacy had already caused tensions within Trump’s circle, with some advisers and allies questioning his loyalty and timing of endorsing Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.
Daines thanked Rosendale for his service to Montana and emphasized the need for Republicans to unite against Tester in the upcoming election.
Sheehy also expressed appreciation for Rosendale’s service and called for unity in the party’s effort to defeat Tester.
Democrats seized on the Republican division, with the Montana Democratic Party’s executive director criticizing Sheehy as an out-of-touch tech millionaire.
Despite Rosendale’s withdrawal, the race for Montana’s Senate seat is expected to remain highly competitive as both parties gear up for the election.
