President Donald Trump has endorsed former federal prosecutor Kurt Alme for the Senate seat in Montana.
The president, in his endorsement, acknowledged Daines's role in setting up his successor.
Daines withdrew his bid and Alme entered the race just minutes before a filing deadline for candidates, a move that appeared to be strategic and clearly orchestrated. Trump almost immediately endorsed Alme after he filed his candidacy.
"A Highly Respected Criminal Prosecutor in my Administration, and distinguished Harvard Law School Graduate, Kurt knows the Wisdom and Courage it takes to ensure LAW AND ORDER, advocate for our Heroes in Law Enforcement, and strongly support our Military and Veterans," Trump said. "As your next Senator, Kurt will fight tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Champion our Farmers and Ranchers, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment."
Prior to working for the U.S. attorney’s office, Alme served as president and general counsel of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation, an organization that supports the treatment of youth suffering from mental health issues and substance abuse.
The president noted Gov. Greg Gianforte and Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) have also endorsed Alme for the Senate seat.
Thursday’s development in the Senate race follows the retirement announcement by another Montana Republican.
Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) earlier this week announced he would not seek reelection due to health issues. Zinke, a four-term congressman, endorsed Aaron Flint, a former member of his staff and a radio talk show host, to replace him. Trump also backed Flint for his seat.
The outcome of this race will affect the partisan balance of the Senate. Currently, Republicans have a 53–45 majority in the upper chamber.
The primary will be held on June 2 and the general election has been set for Nov. 3.