Gianforte's entry shakes up Montana GOP governor's primary

HELENA — U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte launched his campaign for Montana governor on Friday, immediately shaking up the contest for the Republican nomination by prompting an attack from one prominent opponent and speculation that others may now change their election plans.

It's the 58-year-old technology entrepreneur's second try for the governor's office after losing to incumbent Democrat Steve Bullock in 2016.

Bullock, who is running for president, is barred from running again because of term limits, and Gianforte sees the 2020 race as a good chance to flip a seat held by Democrats since 2005.

"For 16 years, Republican policies and conservative solutions have been met with a veto pen," Gianforte said at the annual convention of the Montana Republican Party. "I think everyone in this room would agree that it's time for a change. It's time to set a new course with a new leader."

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