President Donald Trump energized a packed crowd at Kalispell’s Majestic Valley Arena Wednesday night, backing Aaron Flint, the Republican hopeful for Montana’s Western District U.S. House seat. The former president joined a roster of prominent GOP figures, including Rep. Troy Downing and Gov. Greg Gianforte, who rallied support for Flint while targeting Democratic contender Sam Forstag. Attendees filled the arena, which accommodates several thousand people.
“Here in Montana’s First District, we’re going to defeat far-left lobbyist phony Sam Forstag… and we’re going to elect a true American patriot, a fantastic man, a great guy, Aaron Flint, to Congress,” Trump declared.
Flint, taking the stage to Toby Keith’s anthem “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” spoke about his military background and deep roots in Flathead Valley. He criticized Forstag as a “far-left lobbyist from Portland,” sparking boos from the crowd.
Flint emphasized the opportunity to live “in faith and in freedom” in Montana, contrasting it with “failed West Coast policies.” He highlighted Flathead County’s significance, a Republican bastion with the state’s second-largest GOP voter base.
Election data reveals that turnout in Flathead County for House races drops to 72% during midterms compared to presidential years. Ryan Zinke, outgoing Western District Congressman, experienced this firsthand with a notable drop in votes between 2024 and 2022.
Attendees at the rally were thrilled by Trump’s presence and Flint’s direct engagement. However, others like Brett Tallman, a local conservative-leaning independent, opted out, criticizing Trump’s self-absorption.
The rally is part of Trump’s broader campaign push leading to the Nov. 3 election. Air Force One landed at Glacier Park International Airport, marking Trump’s seventh visit to Montana since 2016. Despite his past electoral success in the state, polls suggest Flint’s race remains competitive.
Trump’s speech touched on numerous topics: immigration, climate change, and a $5,000 promise to voters if Republicans control Congress. “Pretend I’m on the ballot,” Trump urged the crowd, emphasizing the election’s importance over any other event.
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