Ryan Zinke

Who is Ryan Zinke?

Ryan Zinke is a former Republican member of the Montana Senate since 2009. He was elected to Senate District 2, representing Whitefish, Montana, in 2009 and 2011. Zinke served as a U.S. Navy SEAL from 1985 to 2008, retiring with the rank of Commander. During his career as a SEAL, he served as a member of the United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group. He was awarded two Bronze Stars for active combat duty. He received a BS from the University of Oregon, an MBA from National University, and an MS from the University of San Diego.

He was the running mate of Montana gubernatorial candidate Neil Livingstone in 2012. Livingstone finished fifth in the Republican primary with 8.8% of the vote.

In July 2012 Zinke created a super PAC to oppose president Obama's reelection. Zinke stated that the PAC would be a conduit to channel special forces frustration with the president, as special forces operators are limited in terms of their ability to criticize their civilian commanders.