GOP candidates debate in Whitefish May 20

Agriculture and rural communities will be the main topics as GOP candidates for Montana’s Western U.S. House seat debate on Friday in Whitefish.

The debate, featuring Mitch Heuer, Matt Jette, Al “Doc” Olszewski, and Mary Todd, begins at 7 p.m., May 20, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

As of Wednesday last week, Ryan Zinke had not committed to attend.

Zinke and Matt Rosendale are the only two GOP or democratic candidates who opted not to participate in the debates.

The primary debates are co-sponsored by Montana Farmers Union and offer an opportunity for voters to learn first-hand where candidates stand on issues important to Montana’s No. 1 industry and rural communities. Topics range from mental health services to the right of farmers to repair their own equipment to truth in labeling to the upcoming overhaul of the Farm Bill.

“These issues have broad implications for Montanans, and hearing from candidates is valuable for educating voters,” MFU President Walter Schweitzer said, adding he hopes people take advantage of the opportunity to talk with candidates in person.

A no-host gathering will follow the debate and give attendees and others an opportunity to connect with MFU. The after-event begins at 8 p.m. at the Craggy Range Bar & Grill. Appetizers and door prizes will be provided.

The debate is the last in a four-part congressional primary debate series for democrat and republican candidates and has been co-sponsored by Montana Farmers Union, United States Cattlemen’s Association, the Montana Cattlemen’s Association and the Northern Plains Resource Council.

Additional televised broadcasts of the District 1 GOP candidates’ debate are scheduled for 10 a.m., May 21, on NBC and at 4 p.m. on ABC that same day.

More information, including videos of debates that have already aired live, can be found at https://montanafarmersunion.com/montana-debates.