State Auditor Troy Downing has announced his campaign for Montana’s 2nd Congressional District, challenging Republican Rep. Matt Rosendale for the seat. In an exclusive interview with Digital, Downing expressed his motivation for entering the race, emphasizing his commitment to fight against an administration that he believes is tearing down the country.
Downing, a Montana Republican and founder of a tech startup that merged with Yahoo, has a diverse background. Prior to his entrepreneurial venture, he served as an educator at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University. However, it was his experience in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard following the 9/11 terrorist attacks that shaped his perspective on war and the importance of defending the country.
“The Biden administration has been horrible to the United States, and we need to start focusing on things that are good for Americans, good for Montanans,” Downing stated, highlighting the need to secure the borders and strengthen the military while removing “woke” ideologies from the armed forces.
Downing’s decision to run for the congressional seat is driven by his desire to address critical issues such as military strength, border security, and reducing the deficit. He believes that his diverse experience, including planning a war and creating jobs, makes him uniquely qualified to represent Montana in Washington, D.C.
While Downing is the first Republican to enter the GOP primary for the Montana district, he may face potential challengers for the red seat. Incumbent Rosendale has been considering a bid for Montana’s Senate seat, currently held by Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, but has yet to announce his intentions for either position. Despite potential primary competition, Downing remains confident in his ability to secure victory, stating that the Eastern District of Montana is seeking conservative representation, which he believes he can provide.
Downing’s track record as Montana State Auditor, a position he has held since 2020, underscores his commitment to serving the state and protecting its residents. He aims to address government spending and the open southern border, two key concerns for Montana voters, positioning himself as eastern Montana’s “conservative champion in D.C.”
As the campaign for Montana’s 2nd Congressional District heats up, Downing’s entrance into the race adds a new dynamic. With his military background, entrepreneurial success, and experience in public service, he presents himself as a compelling candidate for Montana voters who are looking for strong conservative representation. The outcome of this race will undoubtedly impact the future political landscape of the state.
