Montana Democratic Chair Resigns to Back Independent Bodnar, Criticizing Bankhead
Shannon O'Brien, chair of the Montana Democratic Party, resigned on October 12, 2026, to endorse independent U.S. Senate candidate Seth Bodnar. She cited deep party divisions and concerns over nominee Alani Bankhead's policy positions and campaign strategy. Bankhead rejected the endorsement as a political maneuver and vowed to remain in the race against Republican Kurt Alme.