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Missoula Democratic Smokejumper Enters U.S. House Race to Unseat Rep. Zinke

Matt Rains, of Simms, announced his entry into the Democratic primary for Montana's Western Congressional District and told the Montana State News Bureau his unique career arc gives him experience to represent Montanans.
Perceived competitiveness of the western district has prompted more Democratic entries, as The Cook Political Report rates Montana's western district Likely Republican with a +5 margin.
Sam Forstag, a Missoula smokejumper and union vice president, entered the race on Jan. 5, 2025, serving as vice president of NFFE-FSC Local 60 representing roughly 800 Forest Service workers.
Heather Swift, Zinke's campaign manager, immediately attacked Sam Forstag on X, saying he `represents Mamdani, not Montana`, while U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke was reelected in 2024 by nearly eight points amid ethics probes.
It is widely expected that Ryan Busse will enter the western-seat Democratic primary following a poll against U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, while 2025 state and federal election trends showed a swing away from GOP candidates after Montana's added congressional seat.

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The Billings Gazette

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Center

Missoula Democratic smokejumper enters U.S. House race to unseat Rep. Zinke

Sam Forstag's Monday morning announcement was quickly followed by an endorsement from U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

2 days ago·Billings, United States

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ABC FOX Montana

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Center

Missoula smokejumper, union leader enters race for Congress

The Democratic primary race for Montana’s Western Congressional District is getting more crowded. On Monday, Missoula smokejumper and union leader Sam Forstag announced his entrance into a field that already has two declared candidates. “It’s become too damn hard for…

2 days ago·Missoula, United States

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