Trump-backed Troy Downing wins Republican nomination for Montana house seat

Montana State Auditor Troy Downing was projected to win the Republican nomination on Tuesday night, to replace Rep. Matt Rosendale in the House of Representatives and represent the state's second district. 

Rosendale originally said he would not seek reelection so he could run for the United States Senate, but dropped his bid after congressional Republicans, and former President Donald Trump, united around Tim Sheehy for the nomination. Rosendale then opted to run for reelection in the House, but dropped that bid too after he faced a crowded primary.

Downing defeated several other prominent Republicans for the nomination, including former Rep. Denny Rehberg, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen, according to the Associated Press.

Downing, who was endorsed by Trump, is expected to win the seat officially in November, because it is a predominantly conservative district.

Rep. Ryan Zinke won his Republican primary in the first district, over Kalispell pastor Mary Todd. He will face Democratic nominee Monica Tranel this November.