Facing challenging odds, Alani Bankhead, an underfunded Air Force veteran, struggled to reach voters in the final weeks of the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Entering April with just $10,625 in her account, Bankhead from Helena lacked the funds for extensive ad campaigns compared to her opponent Reilly Neill, who had over $100,000. Surprisingly, compliments poured in for Bankhead’s ads, which weren’t from her own efforts.
Unbeknownst to her, the newly formed Progressive Vet PAC had invested $592,000 in digital ads and mailers in her favor, sparking conspiracy theories among fellow Democrats. This situation mirrored past campaigns like that of Montana Hunters and Anglers in 2012, which intervened to influence election outcomes. Brian Miller, a U.S. House candidate, suggested through videos that Progressive Vet PAC’s true intention was to boost independent candidate Seth Bodnar, necessitating a Democratic candidate like Bankhead to drop out.
Bankhead remains unaware of PAC funds and stated, “When I tell you I’m the most boring candidate on the planet, all I do is campaign and sleep.” Progressive Vet PAC, however, does not have to disclose its funding sources until after the June 2 primary. Moffie Funk, the treasurer, declined to specify funders, instead suggesting the PAC’s motives align with opposing Republican interference in the primary.
Meanwhile, the Republican-backed PAC More Jobs, Less Government allegedly undermines Bodnar by opposing Neill with an effort to drive Democratic votes her way. The PAC has spent nearly $282,618 opposing Neill while Jake Eaton, responsible for $95,118 in Neill-opposing communications, did not comment on the matter. Both Bankhead and Neill have vowed not to withdraw from the race if nominated, challenging the Republican-meddling theory.
“Not only no, but hell no,” Bankhead asserted, marking her stance clearly amid the ongoing election intrigue.
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