Stapleton, O'Hara pick running mates

HELENA (AP) — Two Republicans running for governor in a crowded primary have chosen running mates.

Former state Sen. Corey Stapleton says former legislative colleague Bob Keenan of Bigfork has agreed to be the candidate for lieutenant governor on his ticket.

Keenan was last on the political scene with a failed primary challenge to former U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns in 2006.

Stapleton has so far trailed former congressman Rick Hill in fundraising in a race that features seven hopefuls for the GOP nomination in June.

Chouteau County Commissioner Jim O'Hara announced his running mate will be former Montana Highway Patrol trooper Scott Swingley of Helena. Both are newcomers to statewide politics.

Current Gov. Brian Schweitzer can't run again because of term limits.