Russell Cleveland is a father, small business owner, rancher and Navy veteran who is running for Montana’s first congressional seat.

On top of all that, Russ is a former Montana Tech football player who is the defensive coordinator for the high school football team in St. Regis. Last fall, Russ helped lead the Tigers as they advanced to the second round of the Montana Class C 8-player playoffs.

He was the first candidate to announce in what is becoming a crowded field of Democratic hopefuls looking to unseat incumbent Republican Ryan Zinke. Since last April, Russ has been traveling the western half of the state to have important conversations with Montanans.

Russ is running a true grassroots campaign. He is refusing to accept dark money and money from political action committees. He is talking to the people about important issues, like fixing healthcare, improving affordability and ending corruption.

On Friday, I met with Russ inside the vault at the Metals Sports Bar & Grill for a fun, and important conversation.

Listen in as Russ talks about the issues that are so important to most of the people of Montana. Listen in as he talks about his campaign, and how he is getting by without the big bucks the shady sources.

Listen in as Russ talks about how he and his wife Kate lost their 13-year-daughter Madison to leukemia and how that tragedy helped fuel his desire to move back to Montana and get involved in helping others.

Listen in to hear how playing football for legendary Montana Tech coach Bob Green and living in the Mining City helped shape the person Russ is today. Listen in to hear how you can join Russ’s campaign.

Today’s podcast is presented by Thriftway Super Stops. Download the TLC app and start saving today. This episode is also available on YouTube: