Candidate needs some real-life experience first

Another season of political ads pepper our mailboxes daily. As an Independent, I’ve voted for both Republicans and Democrats, focusing on the candidate who most aligns with my values.

I like the idea of younger candidates with new perspectives, so I’m intrigued by young Finley Warden, running for House District 13. Yet, as a Gen Zer, he has an extremely vague on-line presence, which begs the question: where does a young, unproven candidate get campaign financing and why?

His message, “Cut taxes for all Montanans,” “Fight for Montana Values,” “Support Responsible Spending and Limited Government,” etc. are the same tired, hollow taglines in every election cycle.

Younger candidates interest me, but let’s get out of puberty first. Warden has neither the maturity nor life experience to participate in legislation deciding how my tax dollars are spent or my access to healthcare or education. 

Working as an aide for Ryan Zinke for three months in 2025 and as “field director” for the Governor and Montana Republican Party doesn’t cut it. When he works a regular job, pays taxes, makes his own car and rent payments, manages his medical expenses, juggles life's obstacles, and experiences unbearable heartbreak making him question his faith, then we can talk.

Finley, travel abroad, talk to people, listen to their stories and gain perspective. Discover we have more in common than not. Don’t forget, indoctrination and radicalization occur in both parties.

– Colleen Dahlquist, Polson