Jon Tester

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  • U.S. Senate (D-Montana) (2007-2025), Montana State Senate (1999-2007)
  • Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Defense (2021-2025) and Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021-2025)
  • Central Negotiator of the $1.2T American Infrastructure Investment
  • Chairman of the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee (2015-2016)

As a third-generation Montana farmer, Tester doesn’t just talk about rural America—he lives it. His stories about growing up on his family’s farm, working with his hands, and navigating the changing landscape of American agriculture make him a powerful voice on perseverance, self-reliance, and the importance of small-town values in a fast-changing world. From butchering meat on his farm to chairing the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Tester’s journey embodies the promise of hard work and dedication. His speeches remind audiences that leadership doesn’t come from privilege but from persistence, grit, and the willingness to stand up for what’s right. Whether he’s telling a story about fixing a fence in a Montana snowstorm or wrangling votes in the Senate, Tester’s storytelling is infused with humor, honesty, and no-nonsense wisdom. He connects with audiences by speaking plainly, making complex issues feel personal, and leaving listeners with memorable takeaways they can apply to their own lives.

Senator Tester is more than just a politician—he’s a storyteller who embodies the resilience, determination, and integrity that audiences crave. Whether speaking to corporate leaders, educators, or community advocates, his stories inspire action, remind us of our shared humanity, and prove that leadership is about rolling up your sleeves and getting to work. Known for his authenticity, ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and unwavering focus on results, Senator Tester exemplifies the values of America’s heartland while addressing the complex challenges facing the nation. His straightforward, no-nonsense approach to governance, paired with his ability to bridge divides, makes him a compelling speaker for any organization looking to inspire, educate, and foster meaningful dialogue. Whether protecting the land for future generations, advocating for responsible governance, or finding common ground on divisive issues, Senator Tester remains a powerful voice for practical, principled leadership.

 


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Jon Tester: The Montana farmer who went to Washington | CBS Mornings - Get Sharable Link
Talks & Conversations with Jon Tester
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Bridging the Divide: Lessons in Leadership from America’s Heartland

former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) shares his perspective as a moderate Democrat and full-time farmer who has successfully navigated the challenges of serving in the U.S. Senate. He discusses how his rural roots and pragmatic approach to governance enable him to find common ground on divisive iss ...

former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) shares his perspective as a moderate Democrat and full-time farmer who has successfully navigated the challenges of serving in the U.S. Senate. He discusses how his rural roots and pragmatic approach to governance enable him to find common ground on divisive issues, from protecting public lands and the environment to supporting the 2nd Amendment. Senator Tester highlights the importance of staying true to one’s values while working collaboratively to address the needs of all Americans.

Honoring Service: Strengthening America’s Commitment to Veterans and Military Families

Drawing on his tenure as Chair of the Senate Committee on Veteran’s Affairs, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) delivers an inspiring message about supporting those who serve and their families. He discusses the importance of bipartisan efforts to improve veteran healthcare, benefits, and opportu ...

Drawing on his tenure as Chair of the Senate Committee on Veteran’s Affairs, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) delivers an inspiring message about supporting those who serve and their families. He discusses the importance of bipartisan efforts to improve veteran healthcare, benefits, and opportunities for reintegration into civilian life. Senator Tester also addresses the broader role of the military in safeguarding America’s future, emphasizing the need for policies that prioritize service members' well-being and honor their sacrifices.

From Farm to Senate: Protecting the Land for Future Generations

In this speech, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) draws on his unique perspective as a third-generation farmer who transitioned his family farm to organic practices and a U.S. Senator committed to environmental stewardship. He discusses the critical connection between sustainable agriculture, th ...

In this speech, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) draws on his unique perspective as a third-generation farmer who transitioned his family farm to organic practices and a U.S. Senator committed to environmental stewardship. He discusses the critical connection between sustainable agriculture, the protection of public lands, and the fight against climate change. Senator Tester shares his efforts in government to preserve natural resources, promote renewable energy, and support policies that safeguard the environment while strengthening rural economies. This speech highlights how practical, hands-on experience can inform effective legislation to protect the land for future generations.

Defending the 2nd Amendment: A Common-Sense Approach to Protecting Rights and Ensuring Responsibility

In this critical talk, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) addresses his steadfast support for the 2nd Amendment as both a gun owner and a U.S. Senator. He highlights his belief in protecting the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans while emphasizing the importance of responsible gun own ...

In this critical talk, former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) addresses his steadfast support for the 2nd Amendment as both a gun owner and a U.S. Senator. He highlights his belief in protecting the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans while emphasizing the importance of responsible gun ownership. Drawing on his Montana roots, Senator Tester discusses the cultural and practical significance of firearms in rural communities and outlines his approach to balancing gun rights with public safety. This speech provides insight into how bipartisan, common-sense solutions can preserve traditions while addressing modern challenges.

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Jon Tester is a leading expert on organic farming: insights from a farmer and advocate

Former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) is an ideal speaker on organic farming, drawing on his extensive firsthand experience as a farmer and his deep commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. As a U.S. Senator from Montana and a lifelong organic farmer, Jon has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the organic farming industry. He is an engaging speaker on the topic, sharing his personal expertise on crop rotation, soil health, and environmentally responsible farming techniques. 

Additionally, Jon's work in advocating for policies that support organic farmers ensures that his insights are not only based on personal experience but also shaped by a broader understanding of agricultural policy. Tester has walked the walk, both during his work on pro-farmer policy in the Senate and when transitioning his family farm to organic practices. Jon Tester will provide your audience with valuable, real-world insights into organic farming, as well as the latest trends, challenges, and future of sustainable agriculture.

Watch Senator Jon Tester speak at Harvard Law School >>

Former U.S. Senator Jon Tester speaks to resilience in any context

Former U.S. Senator JON TESTER (D-MT) shares a resilience rooted in a personal story that shaped his approach to life and leadership. At just nine years old, he lost three fingers in a meat-grinding accident on his family’s farm; in the U.S. Senate, this experience inspired him to advocate for better healthcare coverage for Montana residents. But for Tester, a painful childhood accident became a lesson in perseverance, problem-solving, and the power of adaptability as well as an inspiration to help others.

In his speeches, he often recounts how this experience forced him to approach challenges differently—learning new ways to do everyday tasks, proving himself in a world that often underestimates people with disabilities, and developing the no-excuses attitude that has carried him through farming, business, and politics. He weaves humor into these stories, sharing how he adapted to playing the trumpet, handling tools, and later, shaking hands as a U.S. Senator.

Beyond the personal, Tester uses his story as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles in any field. He speaks to the idea that setbacks are not the end of the road but opportunities to innovate, build resilience, and push forward. His ability to connect this lesson to broader issues—whether it’s advocating for veterans, fighting for rural communities, or working across political divides—makes his message universally relatable.

His storytelling resonates with audiences who have faced their own hurdles, whether in their careers, personal lives, or leadership journeys. Tester doesn’t just talk about adversity—he shows how it can be a driving force for success, making him an inspiring voice for those navigating change, uncertainty, or unexpected challenges.

Watch Senator Jon Tester speak at Harvard Law School >>

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Books by Jon Tester
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Biography

Senator Jon Tester is a third-generation Montana farmer that cuts a profile like no other individual in American politics. A leading figure in the U.S. Senate during his 18 years of service, Tester was often found in the middle of the action as a key negotiator of landmark bipartisan laws forging compromises between both parties, including negotiating the $1.2T investment in domestic infrastructure. From his time as a member of leadership at the helm of the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee (DSCC) to his own successful Senate races, he earned a brand as one of the smartest political leaders who understands how to navigate modern electoral politics. Tester’s rural roots and firsthand experience effectively wielding power in Washington has given him great insight into leadership, politics, and how to navigate and anticipate the ins and outs of the federal government.

During his career, Tester was the chair of numerous U.S. Senate Committees where he advocated for common sense, bipartisanship, and a stronger America. His time at the center of policymaking and politics make him a great voice on the future of Washington and the United States.


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