One of the saddest observations of this election is how Montana Democrat candidates have distanced themselves from President Barack Obama. It is shameful, but telling, that even the local Whitefish Democrat headquarters cannot find a place for an “Obama—Biden” sign.

Our Democrat candidates are acting like the disciple Peter, who swore that “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you” and then denies Jesus three times before Jesus’ crucifixion. An analogues situation would be claiming you’re a Christian — while ignoring Jesus.

Perhaps, like Peter, Montana Democrats will repent if President Obama is reelected. It took the resurrection of Jesus to turn Peter around.

Both national and local Republicans have portrayed President Obama as a Muslim/socialist/communist/ foreigner hell “bent on [this country’s] wholesale destruction.”

Some of the local political bumper stickers and the comments that Republicans have voiced to me reflected no more than bigotry because the President is half black. I will always fight against such ignorance.

Rather than countering such misconceptions and outright lies, that even Senator McCain disavowed when he was a Presidential candidate, Montana Democrat candidates are scared to defend or be identified with President Obama. Are they afraid that putting an “Obama—Biden” sign up will invite a burning cross replacing it in the middle of the night?

I understand the shallow and disingenuous actions of many within the Republican Party in their efforts to defeat President Obama — but I am at a loss for the shallow and disingenuous actions of Montana Democrats — especially candidates — who are frightened to stand up for the standard bearer and titular head of the Democrat Party.

Perhaps this might result in local battles/elections being won; but it does little to win the war/national election.

Such behavior creates the situation where lies repeated enough becomes reality and the failure of Democrats, especially candidates to counter such lies, debases the Montana Democrat Party.

— Tom Muri