HELENA — It will be up to Gov. Steve Bullock to appoint a replacement to serve the rest of U.S. Sen. Max Baucus’ term if Baucus steps down to become the next ambassador to China.
How that appointment might affect next year’s election for that seat is already the subject of speculation in Montana political circles.
Democratic officials say Baucus is expected to be nominated by President Barack Obama as ambassador to China. Baucus already has said he does not plan to run for re-election.
Bullock Chief of Staff Kevin O’Brien declined to comment on who the governor might be considering. Bullock already has endorsed his lieutenant governor, John Walsh, in the 2014 election.
Montana Republican Party Executive Director Bowen Greenwood says any appointment should be open, transparent and fair.