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  Could Schweitzer Challenge Baucus in 2014?
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ContributorJ.R. 
Last EditedJ.R.  Jun 09, 2011 05:05am
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CategorySpeculative
News DateThursday, June 9, 2011 11:05:00 AM UTC0:0
DescriptionSenate Finance Chairman Max Baucus is preparing to run for a seventh term in 2014, with allies of the powerful Montana Democrat disputing suggestions he might be vulnerable.

This cycle, political observers in Montana and Washington, D.C., are focused on Democratic Sen. Jon Tester's bid to survive an expected bloody challenge from Rep. Denny Rehberg (R). But some Big Sky Country political operatives say 2014 could be equally dramatic. Gov. Brian Schweitzer — term-limited and leaving office next year — has declined to rule out challenging Baucus in the Democratic primary. The Senator's low approval ratings could motivate formidable Republicans to also enter the race.

"Max plans to run, and he plans to win," Baucus spokeswoman Kate Downen said Wednesday. "But that's over three years and another Senate race away. So between now and then, Max will remain laser-focused on working hard and doing what's right for Montana, just like always."

Democratic operatives based in Montana cautioned not to overplay the prospects of Schweitzer launching a primary challenge against Baucus. They argued that political gossip in Montana tends to proliferate — more so than in other states — and that Baucus would have the advantage in any event because of 30 years of party building and the loyalty that he has engendered among committed Democrats.
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