Big Sky Times

As the Montana Senate race intensifies, a new television ad from U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D) has sparked a fierce response from his Republican opponent, Tim Sheehy. The ad, which began airing this week, labels Sheehy a "liar," prompting a swift and detailed rebuttal from Sheehy's campaign.

Senator Tester’s ad, designed to undermine Sheehy's credibility, comes as both candidates prepare for a hotly contested election. Sheehy's campaign has countered with a swift defense, highlighting the candidate's background as a decorated combat veteran and successful entrepreneur.

"Tim Sheehy is a father, husband, combat veteran, a patriot, and an entrepreneur," a statement from Sheehy's campaign said.

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Sheehy completed numerous deployments as a Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader. He served on missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region, and earned multiple combat decorations, including the Bronze Star with Valor for Heroism in Combat and the Purple Heart Medal.

In 2014, he founded Bridger Aerospace, an aerial firefighting company that started with on an all-veteran team. The company started with a single aircraft and has grown to  18 planes, according to the company’s website.

Bridger Aerospace became a public company listed on the NASDAQ in 2023. It is now one of Montana's major employers, according to the Sheehy campaign.

“Tim Sheehy’s company has created over 200 jobs and over a billion dollars in enterprise value to the rural Montana economy,” Sheehy’s campaign stated.

The company’s May 13, 2024 financial reports indicate Bridger Aerospace is growing. It achieved its highest first-quarter revenue this year. The company reported it is on track to grow its revenues over 80% in 2024, totaling between $35 million to $51 million.

Bridger Aerospace currently employs 148 people, one out of seven of whom are veterans. The company recruits veterans, which it says shows its commitment to economic growth for the benefit of Montana, and support for veterans in the state.

According to the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Tester-Sheehy contest is expected to be one of its most closely watched races this election cycle.