The campaign of Steve Daines that Danielle Bradley will serve as campaign manager for his 2026 re-election effort, formalizing leadership for what is expected to be a closely watched Senate race.
Ms. Bradley, who most recently served as executive director of the Montana Republican Party from 2021 to 2025, has longstanding ties to Mr. Daines’ political operation. She began her career in his Senate office in 2016 as Western Montana field representative before becoming field and coalitions director for his successful 2020 re-election campaign.
“I’m honored Senator Daines has entrusted me to lead his campaign efforts,” Ms. Bradley said in a statement. “Whether it’s providing real tax relief for hardworking Montana families or fighting for a secure border, Senator Daines has a proven record of standing with President Trump and delivering for the people of Montana.”
Mr. Daines, first elected to the Senate in 2014 after serving in the U.S. House, is seeking a third term. Montana has trended increasingly Republican in federal elections, though statewide races have historically drawn significant national attention and outside spending.
During Ms. Bradley’s tenure at the state party, Republicans expanded their legislative majorities and secured key statewide victories. The 2024 cycle was particularly consequential, as Republicans defeated longtime Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, consolidating GOP control of Montana’s federal delegation.
Campaign aides said Ms. Bradley will oversee fundraising, messaging and statewide organization as the race takes shape. While no major Democratic challenger has formally entered the contest, Montana’s Senate races have often attracted competitive fields and heavy national investment.
The Daines campaign said further announcements regarding senior staff and campaign infrastructure are expected in the coming months.