Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has endorsed independent U.S. Senate candidate Seth Bodnar in Montana, a significant move by a prominent Democrat to back a non-party nominee over the established Democratic candidate.

The endorsement, announced by Buttigieg and shared first with ABC News, highlights a growing trend in some states where Democrats are supporting independent candidates perceived to have a stronger chance against Republicans.

Buttigieg cited Bodnar's public service record and character as reasons for his support. "The best leaders I've served with, in uniform and in government, care more about getting the job done than about who gets the credit, and Seth is one of them," Buttigieg stated. He added that Bodnar, a former University of Montana president and Green Beret, would "bring that same character to the Senate on behalf of all Montanans."

This endorsement complicates the race for Montana's Senate seat, currently held by a Republican. With both Bodnar and Democratic candidate Alani Bankhead vying for votes, there is concern among some Democrats that the vote could be split, potentially aiding the Republican nominee, Kurt Alme.

Montana is one of several states, including Nebraska, South Dakota, and Idaho, where Democrats are reportedly backing independents for Senate seats. This strategy suggests a pragmatic approach by some within the party to prioritize defeating Republican candidates, even if it means not supporting the official Democratic nominee.

Alani Bankhead, an Air Force veteran who won the Democratic primary in June, has faced pressure to withdraw from the race to clear a path for Bodnar. However, Bankhead has reportedly refused, alleging that party insiders attempted to persuade her to drop her bid, claims the Democratic Party denies.

Buttigieg, himself a veteran, drew parallels between his service and that of Bodnar and Bankhead, emphasizing the need for a senator who will "fight corruption in Washington, defend reproductive freedom, and work across the aisle to lower costs and actually get things done." His statement did not mention Bankhead directly.

The situation in Montana underscores the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party as it navigates various electoral landscapes. The decision by a figure like Buttigieg to endorse an independent signals a willingness to explore unconventional alliances to achieve electoral goals, particularly in competitive states.