With Montana's primary just four weeks away, the debate on Wednesday afternoon focused on a crowded field of Republican candidates. The candidates believe Montana, and the country, are headed in the wrong direction. They think they have a better idea on how to get the state back on track.

Five candidates from a field of seven made the trip to Whitefish for Wednesday's event. They talked with similar ideas on government, tax reform, and resource development. The event was moderately attended, but for some in the audience, the hour and a half discussion did not clear their choice much.

"I really couldn't say that one did better," said Whitefish resident Doug Wise, "I think they all stood up and presented themselves professionally and really did an outstanding job."

Others liked their side by side comparison.

"You could compare their answers, take some notes," said fellow resident Adriene Cardan, "and see what somebody's strong point was, what they were thinking."

The candidates said they want to lead a state with smaller government, lower taxes, fewer obstacles for businesses, and more money from natural resource development. The chamber said they'll save the debate between parties after the primary election on June 5th.