The 1988 United States Senate election in Montana took place on November 8, 1988. Incumbent United States Senator John Melcher, who was first elected to the Senate in 1976 and was re-elected in 1982, ran for re-election. After winning the Democratic primary, he faced Yellowstone County Commissioner Conrad Burns in the general election, and a grueling campaign followed. Ultimately, Melcher was narrowly defeated in his bid for re-election by Burns, who became the first Republican Senator from Montana in 36 years since Zales Ecton lost re-election in 1952.
Democratic primary
Candidates John Melcher, incumbent U.S. Senator Bob Kelleher, perennial candidate
Results
Republican primary
Candidates Conrad Burns, Yellowstone County Commissioner Tom Faranda
Results
General election
Results
By congressional district Burns won both congressional districts, including one that elected a Democrat. District Melcher Burns Representative 47% 53%Pat Williams 49.6% 50.4%Ron Marlenee
See also 1988 United States Senate elections
References