FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS — On Sunday morning, Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and his Republican challenger Tim Sheehy faced off in the first general election debate, which is expected to be a closely watched race this year.
The debate, lasting an hour, was organized by the Montana Broadcasters Association and the Greater Montana Foundation, and took place at Fairmont Hot Springs in conjunction with the annual MBA convention.
Throughout the debate, both candidates agreed on key issues for Montana such as rising housing costs, veterans’ mental health, and concerns related to China. However, they also highlighted their differences.
They clashed on border policy, with Sheehy criticizing President Joe Biden’s recent executive action on asylum requests, and Tester pointing out the lack of progress in passing legislation to address the issue.
Abortion also sparked a debate, with both candidates presenting their views on reproductive rights and the rights of the unborn child.
Tester emphasized his Montana roots as a farmer and teacher, positioning himself as a representative of Montana values in contrast to Sheehy, who he suggested was contributing to housing affordability issues as a recent transplant to the state.
Sheehy, a business owner from Gallatin County, focused on the need for change in Washington, D.C., criticizing Tester’s alignment with the Biden administration.
Both candidates presented their achievements and positions on various issues, with Tester highlighting infrastructure investments and veteran support, while Sheehy criticized the current state of the nation under Democratic control.
The full debate can be watched on the Montana PBS Facebook page.
