Former RNC chair Marc Racicot backs Democrat Sam Forstag in Montana's 1st district

Marc Racicot, who led the Republican National Committee during George W. Bush’s first term and served two terms as Montana governor, announced his endorsement of Democrat Sam Forstag for the state’s 1st Congressional District. Racicot praised Forstag’s preparation, priorities and commitment to constitutional principles. The endorsement is aimed at helping the Democrat attract independent and disaffected Republican voters ahead of the midterm elections.

Forstag, a former smokejumper and lobbyist for the state’s ACLU branch, is running against Republican Aaron Flint, a combat veteran and former conservative radio host endorsed by Donald Trump. The contest is currently a dead-heat, with the latest poll showing both candidates at 44 percent. Racicot’s support adds a nostalgic Republican element to Forstag’s campaign, which also enjoys endorsements from Bernie Sanders and the centrist Blue Dog coalition.