During a recent debate between Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Republican challenger Tim Sheehy, the topic of the Biden administration’s handling of the border came up. Tester criticized the administration, stating that they have “not done a good job” on the border. Sheehy, on the other hand, did not confirm or deny his support for federal abortion restrictions.
The debate, which took place at the University of Montana in Missoula, covered various issues such as federal public lands management, support for Ukraine, and affordable housing and healthcare programs. Sheehy disputed claims that he supports ”pure privatization” of Medicare/Medicaid.
Tester emphasized his roots as a centrist Democrat from Montana who has won three U.S. Senate elections by defeating wealthy out-of-state Republicans. Sheehy thanked Tester for his service but declared that it was time for new leadership.
Sheehy is endorsed by former President Donald Trump. Unseating Tester is one of Republicans’ top priorities in 2024, while Democrats see retaining his seat as crucial.
The race between Tester and Sheehy has become the most expensive campaign in Montana’s history with over $130 million spent so far. In 2024, Democrats are defending 23 out of 33 seats in the Senate while Republicans only need to flip two seats to gain chamber leadership.
Recent polling data shows Sheehy gaining momentum against Tester with a 3.7-point advantage according to FiveThirtyEight’s September 30 aggregate polling data.
Tester’s campaign has significantly outraised and outspent Sheehy’s operation with $43.77 million raised compared to $14 million raised by Sheehy.
During their debate exchange on immigration policy and healthcare, both candidates criticized aspects of Biden’s policies but offered different solutions without clear answers on certain issues like abortion restrictions or privatization of healthcare services.
this pivotal U.S Senate race between Jon Tester and Tim Sheehy will be closely watched as it could have significant implications for party control in Congress.
