GOP Convention In Butte

Montana Republicans gather later this week in Butte to pick leadership in advance of the 2012 election cycle.

Republicans are gearing up to back GOP leader Montana Rep. Denny Rehberg in his challenge to Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester.

At the convention, current Montana Republican Party chairman Will Deschamps is running for another two-year stint. He faces a challenge from tea party advocate Mark French.

French unsuccessfully challenged Rehberg in a primary battle last year, and made some waves by tying himself to the fledgling tea party movement.

Top billing at the convention goes to Rehberg, who will be rallying the troops for his highly anticipated race against Tester.

Bozeman businessman Steve Daines, seeking to replace Rehberg in the House seat, will also have a big presence at the convention.

Story From The Associated Press