{
  "id": 17601,
  "title": "Dems are increasingly desperate to get their Senate candidates to drop out in these races",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/01/dems-are-increasingly-desperate-to-get-their-senate-candidates-to",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-01T11:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "POLITICO",
    "slug": "politico",
    "url": "https://www.politico.com/news/2026/08/01/democrats-independents-montana-south-dakota-senate-01020995"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Democrats are facing mounting pressure to pull out of competitive Senate races in Montana and South Dakota, where independent candidates Seth Bodnar and Brian Bengs have a stronger chance of winning. While Bankhead and Beaudion have expressed reluctance to drop out unless acted upon by divine intervention, the Democratic Party is increasingly urging them to step aside. Polls and fundraising show the independents have a better shot at victory in these Mountain West states, which President Donald Trump dominated in 2024. By staying in the race, Democrats risk losing control of the Senate in an already uphill cycle. Several centrist Democrats argue that a crowded race undermines the party's chances of winning. Some have even suggested that an independent victory could pave the way for a future Democratic caucus or at least prevent Republican control. However, the Democrats remain steadfast in their resolve, believing they can still win despite the headwinds.",
  "summary": "But Alani Bankhead in Montana and Julian Beaudion in South Dakota say they have no plans to clear the way for independents in their races.",
  "key_points": [
    "Democrats pressured to drop out of Montana, South Dakota races.",
    "Independent candidates Seth Bodnar, Brian Bengs have better odds.",
    "Democrats aim to maintain Senate control in uphill cycle."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}