Steve Daines

Steven David Daines was born on August 20, 1962, in Van Nuys, California. He grew up in Bozeman, Montana, where he attended the local schools before graduating from Bozeman High School. He later went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Montana State University. His early life in Montana and education laid the foundation for his career in business and politics.

On November 4, 2014, Steve Daines was elected as the U.S. Senator from Montana, defeating Democratic nominee Amanda Curtis. This victory allowed him to transition from his role as the U.S. Representative for Montana's at-large congressional district, a position he held since 2013, to a more influential role as the junior senator representing Montana. His campaign focused on economic growth, job creation, and natural resource management.

On February 5, 2015, Senator Steve Daines introduced a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The proposed amendment aimed to require the federal government to balance its budget each year, stressing fiscal responsibility and the importance of reducing the national debt. Though the amendment did not pass, it reflected Daines' commitment to conservative fiscal policies and his efforts to promote financial accountability within the federal government.

On July 18, 2016, Steve Daines delivered a speech at the Republican National Convention held in Cleveland, Ohio, where he supported Donald Trump's bid for the presidency. During his speech, Daines highlighted Trump's business acumen and leadership qualities, calling for unity within the Republican Party to ensure victory in the 2016 election. Daines' endorsement was part of a broader effort by the GOP to rally support among party members and the general public.

On January 20, 2017, Steve Daines attended the inauguration of President Donald Trump. As a member of the Republican Party, Daines expressed his support for Trump's administration and its policies, particularly those that aligned with his own views on energy development, tax reform, and deregulation. Daines has been a consistent supporter of President Trump throughout his tenure in the Senate.

On December 20, 2017, Steve Daines voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a major piece of tax legislation passed by the Republican-controlled Congress during the Trump administration. The act aimed to reduce tax rates for businesses and individuals, with Daines citing its potential to stimulate economic growth and benefit Montanans by providing tax relief and fostering a better environment for job creation. Daines' support was crucial in forwarding the legislative agenda of his party in the Senate.

In July 2018, Steve Daines participated in an agricultural trade mission to China, led by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Montana agri-businesses. The mission aimed to expand export markets for Montana's agricultural products, including beef, wheat, and pulses. Daines' involvement highlighted his commitment to supporting Montana's agricultural sector and addressing the needs of farmers and ranchers affected by trade tensions and tariffs. The mission was part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S.-China trade relations and secure economic opportunities for Montana's agricultural industry.

On October 5, 2018, Steve Daines was involved in the Senate vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court of the United States. Leading up to the vote, Daines announced his support for Kavanaugh, citing his judicial qualifications and understanding of the law. Daines' support came amid significant controversy and national attention surrounding Kavanaugh's nomination, which included allegations of misconduct. Despite these challenges, the Senate confirmed Kavanaugh, solidifying a conservative majority on the Supreme Court.

On September 26, 2019, Steve Daines publicly announced his opposition to the House impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump. The inquiry stemmed from a whistleblower complaint regarding a phone call between Trump and the Ukrainian president, which led to allegations of abuse of power. Daines criticized the inquiry as a partisan attack and defended Trump, arguing that the proceedings lacked credible evidence and distracted from legislative priorities.

Steve Daines was re-elected to the U.S. Senate on November 3, 2020, after a highly competitive race against Democratic Governor Steve Bullock. Daines' campaign focused on Montana values, promoting job creation, Second Amendment rights, and conservative fiscal policies. This victory ensured Daines would serve another six-year term, continuing to influence key Senate decisions and represent the interests of Montana residents on a national level.