So far, we have had two Republicans declare they're running for Governor:
1st-Ken Miller, a former State Senator from Laurel, MT. He came in 3rd in a four way race in 2004.
2nd-Corey Stapleton, a former State Senator (from Billings). He served as the Minority Leader in the 2007 session.
Republicans include: state Sen. Taylor Brown, R-Huntley; former U.S. Rep. Rick Hill, of Helena; Dean Folkvord, of Three Forks, CEO of Wheat Montana Farms and Bakery; former state GOP Chairman Erik Iverson, of Missoula; national security and terrorism expert Neil Livingstone, of Helena and Washington, D.C., state Senate Majority Leader Jim Peterson, of Buffalo; state Senate President Bob Story, of Park City; and state Sen. Ryan Zinke, of Whitefish.
So, what are my thoughts...?
Let’s Start with the Democrats. One would have to assume that Bullock could clear the field of most other Democrats. Bullock is the heir-apparent to the throne of Schweitzer. (At least for now, I can’t think of anyone else though.)The AG is often seen as the best stepping stone for Governor (i.e. Marc Racicot 1992).
Jim Lynch is a failed Montana Senate Candidate-No Chance. Larry Jent has a military record, and might have an edge in Gallatin County. He would be the first out state born Governor in a long time (My research shows since Sam C. Ford in the 1940s). Expect that to be a hurdle.
The wild card: Dave Wanzenried. He is an anchor of his' party's left flank. He is popular in Missoula, where the Democrat primary is often decided. He might do well in a primary; however, his far left politics wouldn't play to well in a general. Dave came as close to the Governor's Mansion in the 80's when he worked for Schweinden. A hand's reach must exceed its grasp, or what’s a campaign for...
The Republicans... This one is a little harder. I don't know who I support out of this, yet, unrealized field. Let’s eliminate a few off right away. Taylor Brown has said no, several times. Ryan Zinke is a freshman with little name ID. Dean Folkvord told the Bozeman Chronicle that his run "isn’t likely at this moment."
Neil Livingstone is new to the scene. Word out of the GOP Convention, he gave a serious talk about threats to National Security. Everyone got a good, "Long" look at the topic. Secondly you have Sen. Robert Story, a smart man, who would be a good governor. It remains to be seen if he would have the passion to make a long race for Governor. He will also be out of office, which cuts both ways.
Then we have the return of a few Republicans. Ken Miller is a former Party Chair, and Senator. His tenure as party chair receives mixed reviews, as does his 2004 campaign. Then we have Corey Stapleton, who left the Montana Senate after the 2007 session. He was his party’s leader, and never shied away from a fight. He might have the passion for the contest. He has declared he will run, but, was a name Chuck Johnson missed. Finally Rick Hill re-enters stage right. Rick won two state-wide campaigns. Is still connected, and would no doubt be one of the smart bets in a primary. I am told that the notion of his return was received well at the GOP convention.
And the last two names, Senator Jim Peterson and Erik Iverson. The two men both play roles in the party. Jim is the majority leader in the Senate, and Iverson advises many of the campaigns in Montana. Not to mention, he is a trust confident of our lone Congressman. These two men would also carry a lot of support. They just have to declare. Of all the excuses from the Johnson story, Iverson's excuse was the best. We're planning our son's Birthday party. Made me laugh, and think Johnson should have called back later.
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