The next legislative session will have plenty of challenges for lawmakers and some of the biggest I have ever seen. There is no doubt that the Legislature will need experienced leaders like Mark Blasdel.

I have had the pleasure of growing up and attending school with Mark in Kalispell. Mark has served four sessions in the Legislature including terms as ranking member of the House Education Committee, a term as the House Chairman for the Taxation Committee, and last session as the 52nd speaker of the Montana House.

As a fellow legislator, I can tell you first hand that Mark has been a constant champion for the taxpayer and a strong voice for the small business owner. One of the main differences between Mark and his attorney opponent is his experience.

Many candidates say they are conservative; Mark’s record proves he is. He fought back against the implementation of Medicaid expansion (Obamacare) and the overreach of our federal government. He was the primary sponsor for a committee that brought efficiencies and millions of dollars of savings to the state. As a father he understood that Montana needed tough laws to protect our kids and was one of the first supporters of Jessica’s Law. Now, both Mark and I are proud to say that Montana has some of the toughest laws on the books to protect our children.

With term limits, Kalispell needs an experienced senator that understands our education systems, tax codes, revenue estimates, pension systems, and land management issues. Mark has stood up to the special interest groups and bureaucrats that have no fiscal accountability.

During election time you will hear all the promises and rhetoric; elect an experienced leader that already has a proven record. I am proud to endorse Blasdel and urge everyone in Senate District 4 to vote for him.

Sonju is a resident of Kalispell