HELENA: Montana Gov. Steve Bullock says he's open to supporting the proposed Keystone XL pipeline "if it's done right."

Bullock's comments came Monday in response to a question during an online town hall meeting on climate change. It underscores the tension of being both governor of an energy-producing state and one of nearly two dozen Democratic presidential candidates.

Most Democratic candidates oppose the proposed pipeline from Canada, citing its potential to add to greenhouse gas emissions. An exception is U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado.

Bullock says he's forming a panel to make recommendations on how to reduce emissions in Montana and prepare the state for the effects of climate change.

When asked if he supports the pipeline, Bullock said the idea can't be taken off the table if done right.