Democrat Jonathan Windy Boy exits race for Montana's 2nd Congressional District amid sexual abuse allegations

UPDATE: The Montana American Indian Caucus released a statement expressing concern over allegations against state Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, calling the reported behavior “serious” and, if true, “completely unacceptable.” The caucus said it supports a transparent and thorough investigation and emphasized the need for accountability regardless of political standing.

HELENA, Mont. - Montana State Senator Jonathan Windy Boy will drop out of the race to represent Montana's 2nd District in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to Montana Democratic Party Chair Shannon O'Brien. O'Brien said she recently learned "about allegations of serious sexual abuse against Mr. Windy Boy" and was "deeply troubled."

Windy Boy was first elected to the Montana House of Representatives in 2003. He was elected to the state Senate in 2008 before returning to the House in 2017.

In 2019, Windy Boy resigned from his committee chairmanship amid allegations that he sexually harassed a female lawmaker member via text.

Windy Boy returned to the state Senate in 2025.

Read O'Brien's full statement:

"Jonathan Windy Boy has notified me that he will be dropping out of the race for the 2nd Congressional District. I am deeply troubled to learn about allegations of serious sexual abuse against Mr. Windy Boy. Montana Democrats have made it a point to stand with and fight for survivors – today is no different. We also call on Jonathan Windy Boy to resign his position in the Montana State Senate.

I want it to be clear to all Montanans: Democrat or not, Windy Boy should be investigated and held accountable, as should anyone else with allegations of this nature.

We encourage Montanans to stand with survivors and vote for a different candidate in the June 2 primary."