HELENA — The state’s top three Democrats made it clear Tuesday they are backing John Lewis in the party’s primary for U.S. House.
Lewis, who lives in Helena, is a former staffer for U.S. Sen. Max Baucus. He is running for the open House seat in 2014.
Democrat Melinda Gopher, of Missoula, has also said she will run for the House. The writer and Native American activist finished third in a Democratic primary for the seat in 2010 after raising little money for the race.
Baucus, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and Gov. Steve Bullock said they are backing Lewis.
Baucus said Lewis is problem-solver who will serve the state well. Tester said he will “put responsible decision-making ahead of partisanship,” and Bullock said he chose to back Lewis because he is committed to public service.
Lewis has not held elected office before. He has said he is running to cut the debt and deficit, and to bring reasoned debate to issues important to Montana.
Gopher has said she would prefer a government-run single-payer health care system, and is making clean energy and climate change among her top priorities.
So far, five Republicans have announced campaigns for the House seat.
Incumbent Republican Steve Daines is running for the Baucus’ Senate seat.