How much do you really know about the person you plan to choose to represent you in Helena or Washington, D.C.? Have you taken the time to research this person's background? If you are considering a vote for an incumbent, have you reviewed their voting record?

Are you aware of the sources of financial support this person has received during their political campaign? Have you actually taken time to visit with this person to learn how they intend to represent your concerns?

If we are going to successfully meet the challenges that we face as a state and nation, it will require that every one of us participate in the process. It will require much more than complaining, name calling, spreading misinformation and rumors, and rebel rousing.

It will be necessary for all of us to truly be an integral part of "We the People." This doesn't mean that we simply join up with a special interest group and blindly espouse their rhetoric, but rather it means that we carefully consider the big picture, and seek out ways to contribute to the betterment of mankind globally.

As we consider our choices in the upcoming November election, I strongly urge every voter to avoid making their selection without learning whether or not the person you have sent to Helena actually voted for legislation that was in your best interest.

In many cases, this has not happened. Too often, candidates have been elected just because they had an R or a D behind their name, not because they supported actions which best served the needs of our valley. Just check and see how many times the Flathead delegation voted against HB2 (the state budget bill) during the last session.

There is no question that we are all in a belt tightening time, and that means state spending must be carefully reviewed, but it doesn't mean that legislators should just vote no. They all have the responsibility to work together to achieve a reasonable budget that effectively provides for the needs of the citizens of Montana. As voters and participants in our system of government, let's work together wisely to meet the challenges of our times.

Edd Blackler

Bigfork