CNN-GOP's Zinke Mulling Run Against Dem In Vulnerable MT US Senate Seat

Manu Raju at CNN states that Congressman Ryan Zinke (R-MT) is mulling a run against incumbent Democratic US Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) in 2024. Raju: "GOP Rep. Ryan Zinke told me he is uncertain about challenging vulnerable Democratic Sen. Jon Tester in [Montana], saying it would be a "distraction" from his goals to rein in spending but that he would let the field take shape before making a final decision. "I’m looking at it," he said. "But honestly, this year is going to be important because the House in my opinion is the last stand in checks and balances, and I'm on appropriations..."

• Tester has stated his intention to run for re-election to a fourth term in office. The state is viewed as a key battleground in the 2024 contest for control of the US Senate, with Tester winning by a narrow 50.3%-46.8% margin in 2018.
• As of January 2023, the Cook Political Report has the race as leaning Democratic, while both Sabato's Crystal Ball and Inside Elections have the contest as a battleground/tossup.
• Zinke served as Secretary of the Interior under former President Donald Trump, He resigned from office in 2018 as he faces federal investigations into his travel arrangements, political activity and potential conflicts of interest.