All hat, no show. That describes state senate candidate Don Kaltschmidt.

For six years, we doughnut residents fought the Whitefish City Council as it trampled on our property rights and refused to allow us representation. Don K was a no-show.

In private meetings, Don K talked a big game about supporting our doughnut efforts. But in the public arena, where we needed him, he refused to help. He never wrote a letter to the editor. He never donated to our lawsuit. He never testified before the city council or county commission. Don K was AWOL.

Similarly, Don K has been a no-show on Whitefish’s extravagant City Hall. With his claimed business expertise, you would expect him to say, “Whoa, let’s not waste a ton of taxpayer money on a government structure on one of downtown’s most valuable lots when we can do it for less money elsewhere.” Nope. Don K has been silent.

Don K says, “I’m a dealmaker.” Well, anyone can cut a bad deal. We don’t need that. We need smart, principled conservatives who know a good deal for taxpayers and will fight for it–in public. Similarly, we need leaders who recognize a bad deal, and will oppose it–in public.

Don K refuses to take public positions on controversial issues. We don’t know where he stands on anything.

For instance, Roy Antley, moderator at The Flathead County Republican Woman hosted “meet and greet” recently asked Don K and his Republican opponent Keith Regier whether they would support legislation to allow state legislators to carry a weapon while in state buildings. As reported in the April 9 Daily Inter Lake, Don K said he’d have to think about it.

“That’s a tough one for me,” Don K said. “I would have to look at that issue. I’m not sure I’m ready to support that at this time. That’s a very, very important decision.”

In stark contrast, Regier answered, “The short answer is yes.”

In the Republican primary, I recommend doughnut residents support Keith Regier. He is a true conservative who answers tough questions. He fought hard against the water compact — in public. He stood up against overspending — in public.

And most importantly, when we need a fighter, Keith Regier shows up.

— Rick Blake, Whitefish