In a surprising turn of events, Montana’s Republican Representative Matt Rosendale announced on Friday that he will not be seeking reelection for his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. He cited the circulation of “defamatory rumors” as the primary reason for his decision.
Rosendale had previously made a brief attempt to secure the Republican nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Montana. However, his campaign was short-lived, lasting only a week before he withdrew following an endorsement from former President Donald Trump for retired Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy.
On February 28, Rosendale announced his intention to run for his House seat once again. However, recent developments have led him to reconsider. Rosendale revealed that he has been the target of death threats and has sought assistance from law enforcement. He also mentioned the spread of “false and defamatory rumors against me and my family” following his decision to reenter the House race.
“The current attacks have made it impossible for me to focus on my work to serve you,” Rosendale said in his statement. “So, in the best interest of my family and the community, I am withdrawing from the House race and will not be seeking office.”
This story is subject to updates as more developments come to light.