With Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau saying no to a 2014 U.S. Senate and U.S. House bid on Monday, the bench is getting a little empty for the Montana Democrats.

Brian Schweitzer – No. Monica Lindeen – No. Stephanie Schriock – No.

The Montana Democrats may be forced to hold a convention, place everyone’s name in a hat, and draw a name. That person would have to run for U.S. Senate.

Frankly, if the Democrats lose the Montana Senate seat to the Republicans, it’s Max Baucus’ fault. Baucus’ sudden decision to retire without a heads up to someone he wanted to take over the seat he’s occupied for decades has left his Montana Democratic Party in a pickle. They are also several hundred thousand fundraising dollars behind Steve Daines, who may be the GOP’s candidate for U.S. Senate.

Max will have to write some checks from his campaign coffers to get back in the good graces of the Montana Democrats.

But there’s good news!   Continue reading →