Sam Forstag is a Montana smokejumper, union leader, and public servant running to represent Montana’s 1st Congressional District.
Forstag has spent his career serving Montana communities on the front lines of some of the state’s toughest challenges. As a smokejumper with the U.S. Forest Service, he has fought wildfires across the West, protecting communities, public lands, and the natural resources that are central to Montana’s economy and way of life.
Beyond his work in the field, Forstag served as a leader within the National Federation of Federal Employees, representing Forest Service employees and advocating for the workers who help manage Montana’s public lands and respond to natural disasters. His experience working alongside firefighters, public servants, and rural communities has shaped his belief that government should work for working people—not special interests.
Forstag’s campaign is focused on:
• lowering costs for Montana families
• protecting public lands and outdoor recreation
• supporting workers and strengthening unions
• expanding access to affordable healthcare
• investing in rural communities and infrastructure
• defending Social Security and Medicare
• protecting Montana’s clean air, clean water, and natural resources
Throughout his campaign, Forstag has emphasized practical problem-solving, economic opportunity, and putting Montana first. He is running to ensure that working families, veterans, small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and outdoor communities all have a stronger voice in Washington.
As Montana’s open congressional seat presents a rare opportunity for new leadership, Forstag is focused on building a coalition that reflects the state’s independent spirit and commitment to public service.
I’m Sam Forstag - I’m a smokejumper, a union leader, and I’m running for Congress because for too long, Montanans have been breaking their backs just to fall further behind. Together, we can build an economy that works for working people.