Meet the Olympians Likely to Run for Congress

Monica Tranel

Democrats typically face strong headwinds running in Montana. However, Monica Tranel has a few not-so-secret weapons in her quest to represent one of Big Sky Country’s yet-to-be-drawn congressional districts:

-A tireless work ethic

-A compelling story as a two-time Olympic athlete

-Significant name recognition thanks to two previous statewide campaigns

Tranel participated in the 1996 Olympic Games in the women’s rowing competition. Although favored to win gold in Atlanta, the U.S. placed fourth. At the 2000 Sydney Games, she again came up short in the medal race. 

Montana has an undeniable libertarian ethos. President Trump won the state by 16.4 points in 2020. Yet moderate Democrats, including U.S. Senator Jon Tester, have prevailed in recent years by localizing their races. Whether Tranel has a genuine shot depends on her ability to connect with voters in a way that transcends the national political climate and how the new congressional seat will divide the state. Having the liberal cities of Missoula and Bozeman in the same district might make it competitive enough for Democrats to prevail.

So, what do you think? Will Republicans win control of Congress next year, and which candidates excite you the most? Tell us in the comments below—and while you’re at it, click that share button to spread the word!

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Patrick Houck

Patrick Houck is an avid political aficionado based out of the Washington, D.C. metro area. When not analyzing the latest news, you can find him enjoying the company of family and friends, trying out highly recommended hiking trails, or daydreaming about his next scuba diving trip.