Former Navy SEAL officer and business man Tim Sheehy announced his candidacy for U.S. Senate in Montana in a campaign video.
In his campaign video, Sheehy, a Republican, describes how the events of 9/11 inspired him to join the Navy SEALs, highlighting on his time served in the military and on each of the businesses he and his wife have created in Montana. Sheehy would be running against Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and vying for Tester’s seat.
“I’m Tim Sheehy. Whether it was in war or business, I see problems and solve them,” said Sheehy in the campaign video released Tuesday.
Sheehy’s announcement comes as National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) Chairman Steve Daines has been trying to persuade him to enter the race.
“Tim Sheehy is a decorated veteran, successful businessman, and a great Montanan,” said Daines in his statement. “I could not be happier that he has decided to enter the Montana Senate race.”
#MTSen pic.twitter.com/1BDerZNA3h
— Senate Republicans (@NRSC) June 27, 2023
“America needs conservative leaders who love our country,” Sheehy said in his campaign video. “And, that’s why I’m running for the United States Senate. I want to create a better future for my kids, and your children and grandchildren.”
Sheehy emphasized that his Senate campaign was focused on “service, God and country” rather than “politics.”
In February, Tester announced that he was running for re-election for a fourth term.
“Montanans need a fighter that will hold our government accountable and demand Washington stand up for veterans and lower costs for families,” Tester wrote on Twitter.
It's official. I'm running for reelection.
— Jon Tester (@jontester) February 22, 2023
Montanans need a fighter that will hold our government accountable and demand Washington stand up for veterans and lower costs for families. I will always fight to defend our Montana values. Let's get to work.
Tester, remains the only Democratic lawmaker to continue to hold a state-wide seat in a state that heavily leans Republican, according to Fox News.
In his campaign announcement, Sheehy slammed Tester for being out of touch and losing “sight of our Montana values,” according to Fox News.
“Like any good politician, Jon talks one way but votes another. Montanans have had enough of these career politicians who are full of empty promises and are not representing our Montana values,” said Sheehy in his statement.