Four candidates for Montana governor spoke at the Montana Wyoming Tribal Economic Development Summit in Billings, Montana, on Wednesday.

Republican Tom Keating said he would appoint a Native Americans to the Board of Regents and the Board of Education if they were qualified but would not elevate the state's Indian Affairs office to the Cabinet level. He said he personally opposes gaming, on and off the reservation.

Democrat John Vincent said he would create an advisory council of the state's 8 tribes, including the non-federally recognized Little Shell Chippewas. He said he would have an Indian affairs officer in his Cabinet.

Democrat Brian Schweitzer said he would appoint Indians in his administration. He cited his past work with the Farm Service Agency as evidence of his outreach to Indian Country.

Libertarian Stan Jones said he would not promise Cabinet positions or other posts. But he said the state has no right to be involved in any activity that occurs on the reservation, whether it be gaming or energy development.

Native Americans make up 7.4 percent of the population in Montana.

Get the Story:
4 governor candidates woo Indians (The Billings Gazette 3/25)

Related Stories:
Tribal member running for Mont. Legislature (3/24)
Most Indian-sponsored bills in Mont. killed (05/02)
Mont. lawmakers say Indian bills are kiss of death (04/03)
Mont. Indian lawmakers at odds with governor (02/10)
Indian legislators discuss priorities (01/24)
Mont. now has seven Indian lawmakers (11/08)