Differences between Denny Rehberg and Jon Tester
Denny Rehberg vs. Jon Tester
Denny Rehberg, a Republican, and Jon Tester, a Democrat, are two prominent figures in Montana politics who have competed against each other in a closely watched U.S. Senate race.[1] Their political careers and policy stances reflect differing ideologies and priorities. Rehberg's political career includes serving as Montana's Lieutenant Governor and as the state's sole U.S. Representative for over a decade.[2][3] Tester, a third-generation farmer, served in the Montana Senate before his election to the U.S. Senate.[4]
Their most notable contest was the 2012 U.S. Senate election, which was one of the most expensive in Montana's history.[1] Tester narrowly defeated Rehberg, securing a second term.[2][1] The race highlighted their contrasting views on key national issues.
Comparison Table
| Category | Denny Rehberg | Jon Tester |
|---|---|---|
| Party Affiliation | Republican | Democratic |
| Political Experience | U.S. House of Representatives (2001–2013), Lieutenant Governor of Montana (1991–1997), Montana House of Representatives (1985–1991) | U.S.[2] Senate (2007–2025), President of the Montana Senate (2005–2007), Montana Senate (1999–2007) |
| Affordable[5] Care Act | Opposed | Supported |
| Keystone XL Pipeline | Supported | Supported |
| 2009 Economic Stimulus | Opposed | Supported |
| Gun Rights | Supporter of gun rights | Supporter of gun rights |
| Fiscal Policy | Advocates for a Balanced Budget Amendment, eliminating capital gains and estate taxes. | Has voted in line with President Biden's economic policies 91% of the time as of early 2023. |
Political Positions
Throughout his career, Rehberg has generally aligned with conservative principles. He has advocated for fiscal restraint, including a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and tax cuts, such as the elimination of capital gains and estate taxes. On energy, Rehberg supports the development of traditional resources like coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as the expansion of domestic oil exploration.
Jon Tester is considered a moderate Democrat. While he has often voted with his party on significant legislation like the Affordable Care Act and the 2009 economic stimulus, he has also diverged from the Democratic platform on certain issues. For instance, he has been a proponent of the Keystone XL pipeline and holds a pro-gun rights stance. His voting record shows a willingness to work across the aisle, and he has been ranked among the more bipartisan senators.
The 2012 Senate race between the two candidates was characterized by Rehberg's portrayal of Tester as a strong ally of the Obama administration, while Tester highlighted his own independent streak and focus on Montana-specific issues. Despite Montana's tendency to favor Republican presidential candidates, Tester's emphasis on his agricultural roots and moderate positions resonated with enough voters to secure his victory.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "flatheadbeacon.com". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ "montanafreepress.org". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ "mtvoters.org". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
