HELENA -- Democratic candidate for governor Brian Schweitzer has been endorsed by former Public Service Commissioner John Driscoll, his opponent in the 2000 primary.

Driscoll, a former House speaker who now lives in Helena, said Schweitzer in 2000 ran "an honest and honorable campaign and won the primary fair and square." "We've had a chance to look this man over closely," Driscoll said. "He's honest, he's smart, he's imaginative, he's got lots of energy, and he's got a good heart. I am certain that this endorsement will come as a surprise to Brian, but I ask all Montanans, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian and Green, to give Brian Schweitzer their willful and unrelenting support for governor right now. Let's help Montana move in a good way."