I enthusiastically endorse Republican Phil Mitchell for county commissioner. For four years, I watched Phil on the Whitefish City Council. He was a conservative to be proud of.

Phil never wavered in his defense of the rights of doughnut residents. He was one of only two Whitefish councilors who opposed Whitefish’s appeal of the District Court decision that gave Flathead County doughnut control.

Phil continued to show his support for us doughnut residents by attending the Montana Supreme Court hearing last month.

Phil has been a passionate advocate for our property rights and responsible budgets. He insists on conducting the public’s business in public. He believes in transparency. We will never have to worry about knowing where Phil Mitchell stands.

Whether it’s opposing the current water compact or seeking to fund the Whitefish Stage Road/Village Green remediation, Phil will work hard for a great future for our Valley.

The election office has mailed the absentee ballots. If you want to vote before Election Day but haven’t received an absentee ballot, you still can request one or you can vote now at the fairgrounds. Just go to the fairgrounds and follow the signs to the election building. You can walk in and vote immediately.

I would encourage you to vote early. That way, if something comes up on election day, you still have voted.

— Rick Blake