Overview
- In a wide-ranging Semafor interview, the former Montana senator said Democrats could make major midterm gains and likened the moment to 1932.
- Tester called the party’s message “horrible” and pressed for a specific platform on costs, inflation, housing, college affordability, and alliances.
- He endorsed Chuck Schumer’s decision to oppose a Department of Homeland Security funding deal as a way to force accountability, while noting a shutdown might have limited practical effect.
- Tester said border politics contributed to his 2024 loss and other Democratic defeats, and he condemned recent immigration enforcement tactics in places like Minnesota as unacceptable.
- He ruled out running for office again, urged Schumer to delegate communications to more voices, and his optimism contrasts with a new YouGov poll cited by the Daily Caller showing Democrats with negative approval.