Big Sky Times

Congressman Greg Gianforte has selected Kristen Juras, an attorney from Great Falls, to be his running mate in the GOP primary race for governor.

Gianforte made the announcement during a campaign event March 1 in Billings, according to a report posted on KTVH.

Shortly after Gianforte introduced her, Juras told the attendees, ”I am excited about running as his Lt. Governor and working to make Montana an even better last best place.”

Juras, who grew up on her family’s ranch near Conrad, holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Montana and earned a law degree from the University of Georgia in 1982.

Following 18 years with a private law practice, Juras taught at the University of Montana from 2000 until 2013.

Jump starting the economy so that younger residents don’t need to seek work outside Montana was one of several issues Juras discussed at the event.

"My son Evan, a graduate from Montana Tech, could only find a job out of state. Just last year, Evan accepted a job in Bozeman because of a high tech growth industry that Greg and Susan and their company has spurred in Bozeman. I want all of you out there that have kids out of state to have the same opportunity to welcome your children home," Juras said.

Additionally, the candidates pledged to cut back regulations on small Montana businesses, which, they said, have grown exponentially after 16 years of Democratic governors.

"She's seen first hand how red tape and misguided priorities have left too many folks struggling in Montana. She's helped farmers and ranchers and small businesses navigate the red tape and bureaucracy that we've created here," Gianforte said.

According to a story posted by the Yellowstone County News, Gianforte has emerged as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination. During 2019, he raised $1.4 million, far more than his Republican challengers, state Attorney General Tim Fox and state Sen. Al Olszewski.