Political newcomer Tim Sheehy, running for U.S. Senate in Montana, has achieved significant name recognition among Montanans, despite limited public campaign events. By the end of August, only 2% of respondents in a poll had not heard of Sheehy. His campaign has been fueled by over $100 million in ads that portray him both favorably and unfavorably. Despite this, Sheehy seldom engages in uncontrolled public interactions.
Polling since July shows Sheehy leading incumbent Democrat Senator Jon Tester, often beyond the margin of error. Sheehy’s campaign narrative paints a dire economic picture, emphasizing rising fuel costs, high inflation, and accusing the current administration of mismanagement. He has aligned closely with Donald Trump, echoing the former president’s views on economic issues.
Montana State University’s Joel Schumacher notes that while consumer prices rose 21% since 2020, nominal wages increased 22.7%, indicating a slight real wage growth. Gasoline prices have not doubled as claimed by Sheehy; pre-pandemic averages were $2.49, now at $3.09 per gallon. Trump’s past claims of unprecedented inflation have been debunked, with historical peaks reaching 15% in the 1980s.
Sheehy faced backlash for remarks about the Crow Tribe, leading to demands for an apology, which were ignored. Past candidates have struggled to deflect similar criticisms. Sheehy criticized firefighters, drawing ire from the National Federation of Federal Employees.
Sheehy’s business, Bridger Aerospace, described as struggling in public documents, has received significant funding, including millions from Blackstone’s Stephen Schwarzman. Despite negative coverage, Sheehy’s approval ratings remain competitive, with an Emerson College Poll showing him slightly ahead of Tester. As election day nears, Democrats focus on scrutinizing Sheehy’s background, including his controversial military discharge and injury narratives. In response, Sheehy emphasizes a grassroots approach, promoting conservative values and criticizing Tester as an “America Last” politician.
—
Read More Montana News
