Rosendale withdraws from East Montana House race

Article Summary –

Republican Montana Congressman Matt Rosendale has announced that he will not seek re-election, marking the end of a series of campaign reversals. Originally elected to the House in 2020, Rosendale launched a campaign for the U.S. Senate in February 2024, only to withdraw six days later, then file to run for re-election to his current office at the end of February. Rosendale cited several reasons for his decision, including difficulty moving his policy priorities forward, political retribution, rumors about him, and a death threat.


Republican Rep. Matt Rosendale Drops Re-election Bid

Republican Montana Rep. Matt Rosendale announced on Friday that he would not seek re-election for the state’s eastern U.S. House district, marking another unexpected move in his political journey.

Previously, Rosendale, a conservative hardliner and former Montana State Auditor, had launched a campaign for the U.S. Senate, only to abandon it six days later. He refiled for his U.S. House seat but has once again unexpectedly changed course.

Montana Free Press quotes Rosendale attributing his planned departure to several factors including policy gridlocks, political retaliation, unfounded rumors, and a death threat.

Rosendale expressed disappointment that the GOP-controlled House passed a $460 billion omnibus measure filled with earmarks from his party members.

Rosendale revealed that around the time of his re-election filing, a death threat was made against him. However, the U.S. Capitol Police declined to comment on potential investigations.

The congressman also faced rumors of an affair with a staffer, which were never substantiated. Despite the allegations, his wife, Jean, publicly expressed her support for him.

Rosendale, who began his political career in the Montana State Legislature in 2010, won the eastern district in 2022. Throughout his term, he established himself as one of the GOP’s most outspoken hardliners.

Despite his reputation, Rosendale’s formal U.S. Senate campaign was short-lived. His decision to step down now leaves a vacuum in the GOP primary with no clear favorite. Candidates vying for the position include state auditor Troy Downing and former Congressman Denny Rehberg.

Rosendale is doubtful he’ll seek any other elected position, citing the political backlash he’s experienced. Four Democrats have also filed for the House seat, though the victor will likely emerge from the GOP primary due to the district’s strong Republican lean.


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