Republican hopeful loses running mate

HELENA (AP) — A former Constitutional Party presidential candidate and Florida transplant says he is leaving the gubernatorial ticket headed by Bob Fanning of Pray.

Chuck Baldwin said Monday that the campaign doesn't have enough money to run an effective campaign for governor. Recent finance reports show just $1,000 in the bank.

Baldwin in 2008 was the Constitution Party's candidate for president, except for in Montana where the state party instead nominated Ron Paul. The Baptist minister moved to Montana in 2010 and soon after announced an interest in state politics.

Fanning says he will continue his candidacy. Fanning is perhaps best known for being active in the opposition to wolves.

Former congressman Rick Hill of Helena has so far been leading the Republican primary field of eight candidates in fundraising.