Schweitzer sparks 2016 speculation

Former Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) again set tongues wagging about his presidential aspirations Sunday by talking about his intention to visit every county in Iowa.

Speaking on MSNBC’s “Up With Steve Kornacki,” Schweitzer dodged a direct question about his 2016 intentions — but strongly suggested he was considering a run.

{mosads}”Well, I’ll just say there’s around 100 counties in Iowa, and on my bucket list is to try and make it to all the counties of Iowa someday,” Schweitzer said.

He had previously sparked speculation about his plans when he was quoted as saying he holds the people of Iowa and New Hampshire, both all-important early primary states, “in high regard.”

And he’s scheduled to speak at a progressive gathering in Iowa in mid-December.

Schweitzer earlier this year frustrated Democrats by passing over a bid for Montana’s open Senate seat.