In his more than four decades reporting on the Montana statehouse, Chuck Johnson covered a lot of legislators.
Perhaps none was a memorable, effective and influential as the legendary Hi-Line lawmaker Rep. Francis Bardanouve.
"Representative Bardanouve overcame a severe speech impediment to become one of the most thoughtful, fair, and articulate members ever to serve in the Montana House of Representatives," reads a plaque in the east wing of the state Capitol honoring the 10-time chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.
In this 10-minute bonus Montana Lowdown podcast, Johnson recalls the influence the Harlem Democrat had on the Montana Legislature, the respect he earned from members of both parties, and his enduring legacy.
