Bullock heads for gubernatorial showdown with Hill

(HELENA)- Attorney General Steve Bullock has been considered the Democratic frontrunner in the race to succeed Brian Schweitzer ever since he entered the race. And Tuesday's voting put proof in that perception with numbers.

Bullock cruised to an easy win in the Democratic Primary Tuesday night, with supporters declaring victory shortly after the polls closed. Bullock captured the nomination by a landslide with 87% of the vote over Heather Margolis, a political newcomer who had jumped into the race at the last minute.

The outcome was much closer on the Republican side.

Former Congressman Rick Hill had over 32,000 votes for a solid 35% out of a field that was crowded with candidates. Corey Stapleton, who had contended sharply with Hill down the stretch had just 18% of the votes counted by late in the evening. 

Former state Senator Ken Miller of Laurel finished close to Stapleton with 17%. 

That sets up the November showdown between Hill and Bullock in a race that's expected to see major political dollars being spent and both men pressing hard on their experience.