Republican Rep. Ryan Zinke has announced he will retire from Congress and will not seek a fourth term in Montana’s 1st Congressional District.
His decision will become official Monday ahead of the filing deadline and he intends to complete his current term.
A fifth-generation Montanan and decorated veteran, Zinke first went to Washington in 2014 after winning the state’s then at-large House seat.
He is a former Navy SEAL who earned the Bronze Star and later served as Interior Secretary during President Donald Trump’s first administration.
Zinke returned to Capitol Hill to represent western Montana after his Cabinet service.
In the House he currently serves on the Appropriations Committee.
He previously held seats on the Armed Services and Natural Resources committees.
Zinke frequently clashed with the Obama administration over public lands policy and championed legislation to expand access to those lands.
No Republican has yet declared a campaign to replace him in the district.
Praise from fellow Montana Republicans poured in following the announcement.
Senator Steve Daines lauded Zinke’s long record of service from the SEALs to the House in a statement.
Governor Greg Gianforte also praised Zinke’s career and thanked him and his wife Lola for their service to Montana.
Republican Senate candidate Tim Sheehy called Zinke a great American, fellow SEAL, mentor, and friend who will be missed in Congress.
Zinke’s exit closes a chapter that spans military service, state government, and high federal office.
His departure sets up what could be a closely watched contest in a district that has been a Republican stronghold.
