Montana Democrat Jon Tester Withholds Endorsement of Kamala Harris Despite Past Support

Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, who recruited Kamala Harris to the Senate and referred to her as a "friend," has yet to endorse her presidential campaign, raising questions about potential divisions within the party.

Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, who is facing a closely watched reelection race, has not yet endorsed the presidential campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris, despite having recruited her to the Senate and previously expressing strong support for her.

Tester's office pointed to a Sunday press release thanking President Biden for his public service and supporting an open nomination process when asked about his endorsement. However, they did not respond when asked if he would wait until the Democratic National Convention in August to endorse Harris, as talks of an open primary seem to have subsided and Harris has secured the necessary delegates for the nomination.

Montana Democrat Jon Tester Withholds Endorsement of Kamala Harris Despite Past Support

Tester's relationship with Harris goes back several years. In 2015, when he was chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), he reportedly played a direct role in recruiting Harris to run for the Senate. In 2020, Tester called Harris a "friend" and touted her nomination as vice president in a social media post.

However, Tester's recent lack of endorsement has raised questions about potential divisions within the Democratic Party. The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) has accused Tester of trying to distance himself from Harris after supporting her in the past.

Montana Democrat Jon Tester Withholds Endorsement of Kamala Harris Despite Past Support

Tester is facing a tough reelection campaign in a state that former President Trump won by 16 points in 2020. He has attempted to portray himself as more moderate in recent months, and he called on Biden to step down last week after speaking with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

The Cook Political Report ranks Tester's race as a "toss up." If he loses, it could increase the likelihood of a Republican Senate majority, giving them significant power to block Democratic legislation and potentially impeach Biden.

Montana Democrat Jon Tester Withholds Endorsement of Kamala Harris Despite Past Support

Harris has received endorsements from several high-profile Democrats, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President Barack Obama. However, Tester's withholding of support could signal concerns within the party about Harris's electability or her ability to unite the party.

The Democratic primary has largely subsided, with Harris securing the necessary delegates for the nomination. However, some within the party have called for an open primary process, allowing other candidates to challenge Harris. Tester's lack of endorsement suggests that he may be open to such a process, although it is unclear if there is enough support within the party to make it happen.

Montana Democrat Jon Tester Withholds Endorsement of Kamala Harris Despite Past Support

As the race for the presidency heats up, Tester's decision on whether to endorse Harris will be closely watched as an indicator of potential divisions within the Democratic Party. His reelection race is also likely to be influenced by his decision, as he faces a tough challenge in a state that has become increasingly Republican in recent years.