Tester tours embattled Stillwater Mine

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester says he toured the Stillwater Mine on Saturday in order to boost morale and gather information.

Less than two weeks ago, General Motors canceled its contract with America's only platinum and palladium mine amid its ongoing bankruptcy case.

Tester and other Montana political leader have railed against GM for what they call a shortsighted and hypocritical decision that will cost the country jobs.

Tester told miners that GM's federal bailout was intended to protect suppliers, too. He says the company is breaking its word to suppliers and Congress alike.

Columbus-based Stillwater employs more than 1,300 people, about 90 miles southwest of Billings in the Beartooth Mountains.