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June 18, 2026
Alani Bankhead strategically chose her announcement site as the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate. She stood near Main Hall at the University of Montana, where independent contender Seth Bodnar was president for eight years before launching his own Senate bid.
“As the leader of the University of Montana, Seth settled a lawsuit with 18 female plaintiffs for sexual discrimination to the tune of $350,000,” Bankhead stated Monday, aiming to attract Democratic women voters. She urged Bodnar, a Rhodes Scholar and West Point graduate, to “read the room and drop out.”
The 2021 lawsuit, brought by 18 female UM employees, accused the University of violating Title IX policies. It was settled in 2024, but details remain sealed.
The plaintiffs suggested that the university’s revenue-driven focus on athletics fostered a discriminatory culture. They claimed obstacles were created due to perceptions of age and attractiveness, limiting advancement opportunities compared to their male peers.
Former VP Catherine Cole alleged her salary was below male counterparts, while Barbara Koostra criticized the handling of UM’s art collection. Both women cited instances of discrimination in the lawsuit.
Bodnar, however, reported progress during his tenure, stating 78% of promotions went to women. The settlement’s $350,000 costs primarily covered attorneys’ fees, with plaintiffs receiving $1,855.49 each.
Bankhead and Bodnar play chicken for Dem votes
When Alani Bankhead announced a major campaign update, many Democrats speculated she would withdraw. However, she defied expectations, stating, “Seth Bodner is absolutely the last person on the face of the earth that I would ever drop out of this race for.”
Bodnar, the leading fundraiser in the Senate race, has backing from prominent Democrats like Max Baucus and Jon Tester. Yet, Bankhead’s persistence might split the vote, benefiting Republican Kurt Alme. Bankhead, with less than $24,000, lags behind Bodnar’s $2.1 million war chest.
Democratic contributions are at a record low for the primary, joying the Republicans. A recent poll shows Alme leading with 45%, while Bankhead and Bodnar split the rest. Libertarian Kyle Austin holds 4% support.
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