Montana Senate Candidates Hold First Debate in Bozeman

Butte Bozeman, MT, October 11, 2026 — The four individuals vying for Montana’s U.S. Senate seat convened on Sunday morning for their inaugural debate of the current election cycle. The 90-minute event was held at the Field and Stream Lodge in Bozeman, with Republican Kurt Alme, Democrat Alani Bankhead, Libertarian Kyle Austin, and independent Seth Bodnar participating.

This marked the first occasion this campaign season where all four candidates shared a stage to discuss matters pertinent to the state’s residents. The debate aimed to provide voters with an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on a range of issues that impact Montanans.

Specific details regarding the particular issues addressed during the 90-minute exchange were not provided in the summary of the event. The focus of the discussion was broadly stated as covering “issues impacting Montanans.” Further information on the substance of the debate, including specific policy proposals or candidate exchanges, is expected as the campaign progresses.

The candidates participating represent distinct political affiliations, indicating a broad spectrum of viewpoints that will likely be presented throughout the election. Kurt Alme is the Republican candidate, Alani Bankhead represents the Democratic party, Kyle Austin is running as the Libertarian candidate, and Seth Bodnar is standing as an independent.

The event at the Field and Stream Lodge in Bozeman signifies a key moment in the campaign, allowing voters to assess the candidates’ platforms and their approaches to representing Montana in the U.S. Senate.

Story summarized from the original created by MTN News on www.kxlf.com, see more information here.