Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) wasted no time painting his Republican opponent, Tim Sheehy, as a threat to public lands and the Montana way of life during the first debate of what is widely seen as one of the most contested races in 2024.

The three-term incumbent said Montanas values are on the line in November.

The bottom line is Montana is changing. Were seeing a lot of folks come into the state rich folks who want to try to buy our state, to try to change it into something its not, Tester said. Unfortunately, many of these folks are coming in, theyre buying big ranches. Theyre locking people off of not only that ranch, but the public lands around it. And thats not what Montana is about.

It was one of many subtle jabs Tester took at Sheehy during the event on Sunday, which came just days after both candidates cruised to victory in their respective primaries.

Folks are coming in here and buying two, three houses, making this into their personal playground. Thats not right, Tester said, adding that when it comes to Montanas housing crisis, Sheehy is part of the problem.

Sheehy swung back at Testers repeated jabs at him for being an outsider.

Well, you heard it again if you come here from out of state, youre part of the problem, Sheehy said. If youre not from here, Jon Tester doesnt think your voice matters, apparently.