Letters to the editor May 3

Hohman has character, integrity

We are honored to offer our heartfelt endorsement of Cheryl Hohman for Flathead County clerk and recorder.

Cheryl has been a part of our lives for more than 35 years. She is not just a family friend — we consider her like a daughter. Over the decades, we have watched her grow into a woman of strong character, integrity and dedication to others.

Our roots in Montana go back to 1962, and we have spent our lives working and serving in this community. Jerry proudly served the city of Whitefish as a building official for 10 years, and Harriett worked for Kalispell Regional Hospital, now known as Logan Health, for 15 years. We understand the value of public service and the importance of having trustworthy, capable individuals in roles that serve our community.

Cheryl embodies those values. She is kind, giving and deeply involved in her community. She believes in a friendly, supportive environment where people help one another succeed — whether as friends, neighbors or county employees. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail and genuine care for others make her an excellent choice for clerk and recorder.

We have complete confidence that Cheryl will serve Flathead County with integrity, professionalism and heart.

We wholeheartedly support Cheryl Hohman for Flathead County clerk and recorder and encourage others to do the same.

— Harriett Quinn and Jerry Quinn, Kalispell

Sterling brings leadership

I am proud to support Sheena Sterling for Flathead County clerk and recorder.

Having been involved in Republican organizations for many years, and having also seen firsthand through my late husband Dale’s service in county government how important strong local leadership is, I know county races matter deeply. The people we elect to these offices directly affect public trust, the services residents rely on and the way county government serves its citizens.

That is why I believe Sheena Sterling is the right choice.

Sheena brings both experience and leadership to this position. She understands the work of the Clerk and Recorder’s Office, has proven herself in a leadership role and is prepared to serve Flathead County with professionalism, accountability, and integrity. She knows that local government works best when it is led by people who are qualified, responsible and committed to serving the public well.

As Republicans, we understand that good government begins at the local level. It is important to elect leaders who share our values, understand the responsibility of public office and are ready to lead from day one. I believe Sheena Sterling is that kind of leader.

I encourage the voters of Flathead County to support Sheena Sterling for clerk and recorder.

— Las Suman and Lois Lauman, Lakeside

Bukacek deserves second term

I’m writing to highlight an important choice facing voters in the upcoming Public Service Commission election for District 5. 

Dr. Annie Bukacek is seeking a second term, and her record shows a commitment to principled decision-making and independence that is increasingly rare. She approaches issues with a focus on evidence, taking the time to examine facts carefully and without bias. Her dedication to her work is well established, as reflected by being recognized as Flathead County’s top physician for seven consecutive years. That same diligence and sense of responsibility carries over into her service on the PSC, where Montanans can expect thoughtful and thorough representation.

Across the country and globally, concerns about rising utility costs, grid reliability and long-term energy security are becoming more pressing. Bukacek has already spent considerable time studying these challenges and presenting ideas for addressing them. She brings a level of preparedness and urgency that positions her to continue tackling these issues effectively from day one of her next term. Critics often label her as opposed to renewable energy, but her position is more nuanced — she advocates for evaluating all energy options with a full understanding of both benefits and tradeoffs, rather than advancing policies without considering potential downsides.

Montana has largely avoided the kinds of energy disruptions seen elsewhere, but that should not lead to complacency. The decisions made now will shape the reliability and affordability of our utilities in the years ahead. This election presents an opportunity to maintain forward-looking leadership at the PSC.  

Join me in voting for Dr. Annie Bukacek for PSC 5 in November.

— Bret Bailey, Lakeside

Precinct 47 committeemen

The Flathead County Republican Central Committee is made up of committeemen and women. They look for qualified people to run for the state Legislature and county offices. They also raise money to help endorsed candidates.

It involves attending many meetings and doing research to improve the laws and regulations, which improve our standard of living.

I have been on the committee for many years and am seeking reelection for Precinct 47. I represented the Flathead for 16 years in the Legislature as a conservative Republican.

The boundaries of Precinct 47 are on both sides of Lower Valley Road, north to the Flathead River and south to Montana 82. The primary ballots will be sent out May 2.

— Verdell Jackson, Kalispell