Gianforte Rubs Elbows at the Busted Knuckle

On July 7, the Montana Republican gubernatorial candidate Greg Gianforte and running mate Leslie Robinson were at the Busted Knuckle Brewery in downtown Glasgow for a meet and greet with Glasgow residents. The event was scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. and the popular venue was full to capacity.

The Courier reached out to Gianforte and Robinson via Aaron Flint, campaign spokesmen, to get some details on just a few of Gianforte's positions.

Flint was asked how Gianforte and Robinson plan to help Montana with mental health shortages and rural access particularly dealing with suicide. He responded, "Montana is at the bottom of the nation when it comes to suicide. We clearly need to invest in suicide prevention programs. However, Montana is also near the bottom of the nation in wages, and economics can be a factor as well. Unfortunately, financial challenges can be compounding factors for folks in challenging and stressful situations. Greg believes this is one more reason why we need to create more high wage jobs in Montana."

Flint was asked to explain how Gianforte can best defend our region from out-of-state money and activism of the sort best exemplified by the American Prairie Reserve and their plans for "free-roaming" bison release. Flint commented that, "This is why it is so important that Lesley Robinson serves as your next Lt. Governor.  She's a fourth generation Montana rancher, and has served for 11 years as a county commissioner on the Hi-Line.  She'll ensure that agriculture and Rural Montana have a seat at the table."

Lastly, Flint was asked how Gianforte distinguishes himself from other conservative politicians on social justice issues. Flint responded, "As CEO of RightNow Technologies in Bozeman, Greg was able to lead a diverse team and achieve some great outcomes right here in Montana. He plans to run the state the same way he ran his incredibly successful business - a diverse team with diverse interests focused on one common goal: creating more high-wage jobs so our kids don't have to leave Montana to find opportunity elsewhere."