Sam Forstag secured the Democratic nomination for Montana's 1st Congressional District in the June 2, 2026, primary, capturing roughly 37 percent of the vote and outpacing Ryan Busse by several points. As a former smokejumper and union organizer backed by organized labor and prominent progressive figures, Forstag consolidated support among working-class and union voters in the western district that includes Missoula and Bozeman. Matt Rains, a rancher emphasizing moderate and agricultural credentials, finished well behind with under 10 percent. With vote counts now largely complete and the leading contender having declared victory, market pricing reflects the confirmed primary outcome while leaving room for any final certification or recount processes.