Why It Matters
A Montana state senator has restarted his campaign for Congress three weeks after dropping out amid allegations of past sexual misconduct. The move sets up a contentious Democratic primary and raises questions about candidate vetting and party leadership response to serious allegations.
What Happened
Montana state Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy announced Wednesday he is resuming his Democratic primary campaign for the U.S. House seat representing Montana’s Eastern Congressional District. The announcement came via text message to reporters and a website update stating the campaign was unsuspended.
Windy Boy had suspended his campaign in mid-April after the Montana Democratic Party announced he was dropping out. That withdrawal followed allegations by a Pennsylvania woman that Windy Boy sent sexually explicit photos and messages to underage girls in 2002. The allegations were publicized by his Democratic primary opponent Brian Miller.
In a May 6 statement, Windy Boy called the allegations a political ambush and said the matters were previously investigated and referred to law enforcement more than 20 years ago. He claimed the matter was vacated and accused Democratic leadership of political prosecution without due process.
Recent Developments
Two days before rejoining the race, legislative leaders from both parties removed Windy Boy from his interim committee and commission assignments. The action was taken at the joint request of Senate President Matt Regier and Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers.
Lance FourStar, who worked as a campaign consultant for Windy Boy in April, said he will no longer be involved in the campaign because of the allegations. FourStar, who is running for state House within Windy Boy’s Senate district, cited his advocacy for missing and murdered Indigenous peoples and his role as a grandfather in explaining his decision.
By the Numbers
The allegations date back more than 20 years to 2002. Windy Boy suspended his campaign in mid-April 2026. He rejoined the race three weeks later in early May. Montana’s Secretary of State website showed Windy Boy’s name remained on the candidate list for the U.S. House race as of Wednesday.
What’s Next
Windy Boy remains on the Democratic primary ballot for Montana’s Eastern Congressional District. He faces Brian Miller in the primary election. Montana Democratic Party Chair Shannon O’Brien has not publicly commented on Windy Boy’s decision to rejoin the race. The primary contest will proceed with both candidates competing for the nomination.