big sky democrats

Jim Farrell Right Pick To Lead Operations in Helena

Call it a dream team for the Montana Democratic Party: Dennis McDonald, the Melville-area rancher with a proven record of success, and a veteran political operative named Jim Farrell.

On Tuesday, McDonald tapped Farrell to be the Party’s new executive director, replacing long-time ED Brad Martin. Yes, there’s more

The pair will now be charged with picking up seats in the legislature, ousting Conrad Burns and Rep. Rehberg in 2006, and reelecting Brian Schweitzer and Max Baucus in 2008.

How will they do that? By launching an unprecedented grassroots organizing effort and building on the momentum the Party has generated over the last several years.

Farrell, 41, is cut from the same cloth as many effective political operatives in the state. A former communications director for the late Sen. Paul Wellstone and a former California political consultant, Farrell will bring the right mix of grassroots organizing, messaging, and outreach to a party that is on the move.

Likeable, quick on his feet, engaging, and committed would be a few choice words to describe Farrell. Set that next to McDonald, whose rural perspective and hard work ethic are unmatched, and you have a formula for success.

“The election of Brian Schweitzer (as governor), the work of Senator (Max) Baucus and the enormously important U.S. Senate election here (in 2006) have been powerful draws to me,'' Farrell told the Lee State Bureau Tuesday. "It is a very exciting time to be a Democrat in Montana right now.''

Indeed, Jim. Welcome aboard.