Troy Downing Seeks Nomination to Take On Tester

Business executive and California Air National Guard Veteran Troy Downing is seeking the Republican nomination to challenge Jon Tester for U.S. Senate. A political newcomer, Downing enlisted in the Air National Guard following the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and served two tours in Afghanistan.

Downing grew up in California. After high school, he attended New York University, where he earned a degree in Information Technology. He then developed a startup company in California before relocating to Montana.

According to Downing's website, his goals include limiting government, protecting states' rights, and lowering taxes. He is a supporter of public access to public lands.

In a prepared statement for the Courier, Downing said, "We need to elect real people to represent Montana as a service, not a career. I have the real world experience of building a company, making a payroll and understanding national security by proudly serving in our military. [...] I love Montana and it would be an honor to serve our state in the U.S. Senate."