Forstag Wins Montana House Seat
Democrat takes western district, becoming the state's first House member in 32 years.
By Lucas Sheridan ·
Democratic candidate Sam Forstag secured the U.S. House seat for Montana's western district, defeating Republican Aaron Flint by a margin of 3 percentage points. Forstag captured 50 percent of the vote while Flint received 47 percent in the final tally.
The outcome was determined by late-counting ballots from Gallatin County. With 95 percent of all ballots counted, a gap of 7,000 votes separated the two contenders. The Associated Press had not formally called the race as of the reporting time, but both candidates acknowledged the result before the final certification.
Flint phoned Forstag late Tuesday night to concede. On Wednesday morning, Flint posted a message on social media congratulating his opponent. He wrote that it is always an honor to fight for what is right. Forstag addressed supporters at a watch party in Missoula, noting that the final voter in Gallatin County had cast their ballot just minutes before the results shifted in his favor.
The victory gives Democrats a majority in the U.S. House. However, the new balance of power is insufficient to override a presidential veto. President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that he intends to work with the new congressional majority while using his veto power frequently.
During a Wednesday press conference, Forstag outlined his legislative goals. He said his primary focus is introducing and passing bills rather than opposing the administration. He described his broader aim as building a political system that creates space for working people.
Forstag will be the first Democrat to represent Montana in the U.S. House in 32 years. The election also saw two state ballot measures pass. One amendment establishes nonpartisan elections in the Montana Constitution. The second limits state lawmakers from adding restrictions to future ballot initiatives.
