Paul Kiel March 21, 2006, 11:24 AM

The Helena Independent Record reports that “rumors are swirling are swirling around Montana political circles” that Sen. Conrad Burns (R-MT) might drop out of the race before Thursday’s filing deadline. A recent poll showed Burns trailing the leading Democratic challenger 48-43.

Burns’ spokesman says that he’s in it to win it.

Looks like we’re in for a round of the Katherine Harris will-he-or-won’t-he Do-Si-Do up there in Montana.

Here’s our rundown of Burns’ Abramoff troubles.

Conrad Burns