Montana Dems Kicking Off JOBS Tour

The Montana Democratic Party will cross the state over the next few weeks reminding voters that under Democratic leadership, the state’s economy remains strong despite the national trends.

As Sen. Max Baucus wraps up his Economic Development Summit in Butte, Democratic leaders and legislative candidates will launch the Jobs Opportunity and Business Strength (JOBS) tour in Billings starting Wednesday.

The JOBS tour in Billings is the first of several small-business stops planned across the state. Other tours are planned in the coming weeks for Havre, Helena, Missoula and Kalispell.

“Under Democratic leadership, Montana’s economy has grown stronger despite the national economic trends,” said Martin Kidston, spokesman for the MDP. “The state’s overall business climate is now ranked eighth in the country, and our tax climate for businesses is now ranked sixth.”

On the JOBS tour, the MDP will highlight its economic plan to stimulate additional job growth and encourage small-business growth in a fiscally responsible way.

Legislative candidates and Democratic leaders will tour small businesses and talk with workers and owners about the Democratic plan to make the state’s economy even stronger.

“Montanans will have to decide this November if they want to move forward with innovative and progressive ideas, or move backwards to failed Republican tactics,” said Kidston. “We want Montanans to know where we stand on the issues. Our candidates and party leaders will continue to listen to business owners and workers, and bring their ideas back to the Legislature this January.”

In coming weeks, the party will also address issues like energy, education, veterans, spending, Native American issues and agriculture.