Gianforte Wins First Debate, Stresses Business Leadership Over Career Politicians

Press Release

Bozeman businessman and tech entrepreneur Greg Gianforte emerged the victor after the first debate of the 2016 Montana gubernatorial campaign. The debate was held Sunday Morning in Big Sky and was hosted by the Montana Broadcasters Association.

Gianforte was focused on creating jobs and opportunities during the debate, highlighting his business track record, Montana values, and willingness to defend Montana's interests. Career politician Steve Bullock simply offered more government solutions.

GIANFORTE: As Governor, I intend to focus on four key areas. First, I'll bring more high wage jobs to Montana. Second, I'll be relentless in bringing innovation to our education system so our kids are prepared for the jobs of the future. Third, I'll insist on transparency and accountability in state government, and fourth, I'll take on healthcare costs.

Gianforte criticized the governor over the fact that Montana is 49th in wages and last in income for millennials. Bullock has also failed to acknowledge the severe repercussions of job losses across the state, such as the job losses at the Weyerhaeuser mills in Columbia Falls this week.

GIANFORTE: You've heard claims today that our economy is strong and unemployment is low. The reality is, we're lacking high wage jobs. Montana is stuck at 49th in the nation in wages and we're 50th in income for young people. As a consequence, our children have become our most precious export.

Gianforte is the founder of RightNow Technologies. He started the company out of his house in Bozeman, and created over 500 jobs in Montana. The average Montana salary at RightNow was nearly $90,000 a year. Oracle purchased RightNow in 2012, and continues to expand the company's footprint in Montana.

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