Montana Democratic gubernatorial candidate Whitney Williams is turning to a northeastern Montana farmer as her lieutenant governor running mate. Williams chose Buzz Mattelin, president of the National Barley Growers Association.
Williams announced her running mate pick in a press conference just down the hall from the Governor’s Office inside the state capitol.
Mattelin, a farmer from Roosevelt County, joins the Williams ticket three months before voters head to the primary polls. Mattelin brings a voice from eastern Montana to Williams’ campaign pitch.
"Buzz Mattelin has spent his entire career fighting for Montana's farmers and ranchers," Williams said.
Mattelin said Montana is changing and the state needs new leadership.
"I will take any opportunity to bring agricultural issues, our rural economy and the concerns of folks living in eastern Montana to Helena. And I’m excited to do this alongside Whitney Williams."
Williams faces current Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney in the Democratic primary. Cooney last week named House Minority Leader Casey Schreiner his running mate.
There’s a three-way race in the Republican primary race for governor between Congressman Greg Gianforte, Attorney General Tim Fox and State Senator Al Olszewski.
Candidates have until March 9 to file for the 2020 ballot.