Montana Republican US Sen. Steve Daines drops reelection bid in surprise move

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines of Montana dropped his bid for reelection to a third term in a surprise withdrawal just minutes before a Wednesday filing deadline for candidates.

Daines, 63, said in a statement that he wrestled with the decision for months before deciding to retire. He said he looked forward to spending time with his seven grandchildren and more time in Montana.

Montana U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme, who is also a Republican, entered the race shortly...