A former legislator is the only announced candidate for Montana Democratic Party chairman as the party meets this weekend in Bozeman to choose new leaders.     

Jim Elliott of Trout Creek served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate for 16 years. He is a retired rancher with a small timber outfit.

Elliott says the Democratic Party could improve the way it communicates with rural Montana and hopes to make the party more competitive for those legislative seats.     

Trudy Skari of Helena has withdrawn from the race.

Current Chairman Dennis McDonald is not seeking another term because he is running for Congress.