Montana Democrats Sue Over Green Party Candidate

The Montana Democratic Party is pursuing a lawsuit to prevent Green Party U.S. Senate candidate Robert Barb from appearing on the November ballot, claiming procedural violations occurred when replacing the candidate after the primary winner, Michael Downey, withdrew. Despite the Secretary of State, Christi Jacobsen, certifying the ballot with Barb included, a temporary restraining order was issued by a judge, complicating the certification process. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Supreme Court dismissed a Democratic National Committee challenge aimed at removing Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein from the ballot, citing that the party met legal requirements for ballot access. The Democrats argued that Stein's presence could siphon votes away from Vice President Kamala Harris, potentially aiding Republican Donald Trump in a critical swing state. This dismissal comes as the Green Party of Wisconsin celebrates its continued inclusion on the ballot after a similar legal battle earlier this year. The outcome of both cases highlights the contentious role of third-party candidates in shaping electoral dynamics in pivotal states.