National Guard commander to run with Bullock

HELENA — Attorney General Steve Bullock says his running mate for governor will be the state's national guard commander.

Bullock, a Democrat, says that Brigadier General John Walsh has agreed to run as lieutenant governor on his ticket. Walsh, originally from Butte, retired earlier this week to make the entry into politics.

Bullock is the clear front runner for the Democratic nomination.

Several Republicans engaged in a primary battle, topped in fundraising by former Congressman Rick Hill, are all eying a tough general election battle with Bullock.

Bullock praised Walsh's credentials as leader of Montana soldiers, rising from an enlisted soldier to a war time commander.

Current Gov. Brian Schweitzer, a popular Democrat, is prevented from running again by the state's term limits.