Not only do citizens need to be informed about candidates on their election ballots, but veterans especially need to know where national candidates stand on the debate over their healthcare. Veterans issues are a hot topic in Senate races across the country in states like Wisconsin, North Dakota and Montana. Voters in in these states, especially voting veterans, need to take into consideration the candidates’ historical stances on issues that impact America’s veterans.

This year, incumbent Senator Jon Tester (D) will face off against Montana State Auditor Matt Rosendale (R), and the campaign is expected to be a tight one, something not new to Tester. In 2012, Tester won by only four points against his Republican opponent.

Earlier this year, the race for Montana Senate was thrust into the national spotlight following President Trump’s failed nomination of Ronnie Jackson. Tester is in boiling water with President Donald Trump after Tester’s largely unfounded accusations against the White House physician. Those claims set off a Twitter-storm between the Trump and Tester. Jackson has denied Tester’s allegations, and further investigations have shown them to be unfounded. Nevertheless, Tester has stood by the allegations.

Jackson officially withdrew from consideration from VA Secretary following the uproar over the allegations that surfaced from Tester’s office.

Why the Montana Senate race is important for veterans

In early July, Trump visited Great Falls, Montana in support of Jon Tester’s Republican challenger Matt Rosendale. During the rally, Trump minced no words about the incumbent democratic senator, including Tester’s votes against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and the Republican tax cut bill.

Tester is a high-ranking member on Veterans Affairs, meaning he has more influence than most senators when it comes to veterans’ issues. This November, Veterans in Montana will have to decide if Tester has done enough in his role as a ranking member on the Veterans committee or if it is time for a change.

The Montana Senate race is one of three elections Veterans Action Network is following this election season. We believe that veterans should be informed on the candidates and where they stand on the issues most important to them.

For too long, returning servicemen and women are faced with too many hurdles when it comes to their healthcare. It’s time for all of us to a clear message to Washington: Keep your promises to those who sacrificed everything for our country!