For years, Democrats have struggled to harness voter anger in Montana as out-of-state wealth drives up costs. In Ennis, businesses like Kalena's tea shop and the Burnt Tree brewery have closed or adapted by converting cabins into employee housing due to staff shortages and unaffordable rents. This affordability crisis has become a central campaign issue.

In a key western congressional district, Democrat Sam Forstag, a firefighter and union leader, is challenging Republican Aaron Flint to flip a House seat. The race could determine control of Congress. Forstag, who once earned $19 an hour fighting wildfires, runs on an unapologetic progressive platform, arguing that elected officials like Gov.

Greg Gianforte and Senator Tim Sheehy are out of touch with middle-class struggles. Flint campaigns on a Trump-inspired slogan to "Make Montana Affordable Again," deriding Forstag as a socialist tied to national Democratic figures. While most polls currently favor Flint, a Democratic survey in June found the race tied.

With voters sour on high prices, the contest hinges on whether housing costs or party affiliation are the greater liability. Scott Kelley of the Burnt Tree brewery supports Forstag but doubts Democrats can overcome long-standing rural resistance.