Trump Makes New Endorsement
President Donald Trump has quickly stepped into Montana’s newly opened congressional race, offering his endorsement to conservative radio host and Army Reserve officer Aaron Flint just hours after Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) announced he will retire from Congress.
The endorsement immediately gives Flint a major boost in what could become one of the most closely watched Republican races in the state.
Posting on Truth Social Tuesday, Trump praised Flint as a strong America First conservative and encouraged voters in Montana’s 1st Congressional District to support his campaign.
“It’s a great privilege to endorse Aaron Flint as the next representative for the outstanding people of Montana’s First Congressional District,” Trump wrote. “Aaron is a true MAGA fighter with strong backing from many dedicated America First supporters across Montana.”
Trump also noted that Flint already has backing from several prominent Republican leaders in the state, including Senator Tim Sheehy, Congressman Ryan Zinke, Congressman Troy Downing, and Governor Greg Gianforte.
Who Is Aaron Flint?
Aaron Flint is well known to many Montanans as the host of “Montana Talks,” a popular political radio program airing on 1459 KMMS.
But Flint’s background extends far beyond broadcasting.
He serves as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve and previously deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, along with multiple missions across the Middle East.
According to the veterans organization Warriors & Quiet Waters, Flint has also worked in Montana politics. He previously served as:
- State director for Ryan Zinke’s congressional offices
- Communications director for Greg Gianforte’s successful gubernatorial campaign
Supporters say Flint’s combination of military service, media experience, and political leadership makes him a strong candidate for Congress.
Trump Highlights Flint’s America First Priorities
In his endorsement, President Trump emphasized Flint’s commitment to issues that resonate strongly with conservative voters.
Trump said Flint will work to:
- Protect Montana’s farmers and ranchers
- Grow the American economy
- Cut taxes and reduce government regulations
- Promote Made in America manufacturing
- Expand U.S. energy independence
- Secure the southern border
- Stop migrant crime
- Support the U.S. military and veterans
- Protect election integrity
- Defend the Second Amendment
“Aaron Flint has my full and unequivocal endorsement to serve as the next Representative for Montana’s First Congressional District,” Trump wrote. “He will not disappoint the people of Montana.”
Ryan Zinke Also Endorses Flint
Flint also received immediate support from Rep. Ryan Zinke, who endorsed the radio host after announcing his own retirement.
Writing on the social platform X, Zinke described Flint as a proven leader who represents Montana’s future.
“Aaron Flint is a highly decorated combat veteran, a committed America First conservative, and someone who has spent his life defending Montana’s values and traditions,” Zinke wrote. “He represents the kind of next-generation leadership our state is looking for.”
Zinke also pointed to Flint’s decision to serve in the military following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
“When our country needed him after 9/11, Aaron raised his hand to serve,” Zinke wrote. “Now Montana needs him again, and he is ready to serve.”
Why Ryan Zinke Is Stepping Down
Zinke revealed earlier this week that ongoing health issues played a major role in his decision to leave Congress.
In a message to constituents, the former Navy SEAL said he has undergone multiple surgeries since returning to Congress in January 2023 and expects to face additional procedures in the future.
“The injuries from my years in Special Operations are not immediately life-threatening,” Zinke wrote. “But the repairs can no longer be delayed.”
He said recovery will require significant time with his wife Lola and their family.
Zinke added that stepping aside now ensures Montana will continue to receive full representation in Congress without the risk of missed votes or extended absences during his recovery.
Zinke’s Time in the Trump Administration
Before returning to Congress, Zinke served as President Trump’s first Secretary of the Interior, holding the position from 2017 until early 2019.
During that time, the Interior Department’s Office of Inspector General referred questions regarding certain land deals to the Justice Department. Zinke later returned to Montana politics and was reelected to Congress.
Filing Deadline Approaches in Montana Race
Candidates hoping to run for Montana’s open House seat must act quickly. The deadline to officially file for the race is Wednesday.
With President Trump’s endorsement and early backing from major Montana Republicans, Aaron Flint is already emerging as a serious contender in the race to represent Montana’s 1st Congressional District.
The contest could play a key role in determining the future direction of Montana’s conservative leadership in Washington.
