Sheehy Leads Tester in Montana Senate Race Surge

A recent poll conducted by RMG Research from September 12-19 shows Republican Tim Sheehy leading incumbent Democrat Jon Tester in the Montana Senate race, with Sheehy at 50% and Tester at 41%. This marks a notable shift from a previous poll in August, where Tester held a slight lead. The poll surveyed 491 likely voters and has a margin of error of 4.4 percentage points. Voter sentiment indicates a strong preference for Republican candidates, with 57% acknowledging their vote could influence Senate control. The poll also highlights broader political trends in Montana, where Donald Trump enjoys significant popularity, garnering a 59% favorable rating compared to Kamala Harris's 36%. Economic concerns dominate voter priorities, with 38% identifying the economy as the most pressing issue, followed by illegal immigration at 29% and abortion at 11%. Tester's unfavorable rating stands at 52%, suggesting a challenging environment for the incumbent, who has been in office since 2007. The Republican Party has historically performed well in Montana, winning 16 of the last 18 presidential elections since 1952, which may influence the current Senate race dynamics. As the election approaches on November 5, the shifting voter preferences and economic concerns could significantly impact the outcome, potentially altering the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The results of this poll may serve as a bellwether for the political landscape in Montana and beyond.