Tester, Bullock lend star power in final push

HELENA — U.S. Senate candidate Amanda Curtis hasn't had much time to introduce herself to Montana voters since becoming the Democratic nominee in August, but she's getting a boost from the party's biggest names in the final days before Tuesday's election.

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and Gov. Steve Bullock joined Curtis and Democratic U.S. House candidate John Lewis on a tour of the state that hit 17 towns and cities starting Thursday and ending Sunday. On Saturday, they started their day in Helena at a rally attended by about 75 people.

"We can't have Jon Tester alone in D.C.," Bullock told the crowd of Democratic Party faithful. "We need John Lewis. We need Amanda Curtis."

Until now, the party leaders have played a background role, mainly appearing at a couple of fundraisers and sending out emails to raise money for Curtis.

Tester called Curtis energetic and a breath of fresh air, but said that her candidacy has to stand on its own.

"That's Montana — you go out and run your own race," Tester said. "My role is to empower the grassroots to move the party forward."

Details in Monday's Havre Daily News.