A candidate of character

In the PSC District 5 race, voters should pay close attention to transparency and accountability. Campaign finance reporting laws exist for a reason: the public deserves to know who is funding candidates and how campaign money is being spent.

According to the Commissioner of Political Practices website, candidates Joe Dooling and David Sanders failed to file their April C-5 finance reports by the required April 20 deadline, filing two weeks late instead. Montana law clearly requires these reports to be submitted on time.

This is not a minor paperwork issue. Timely financial disclosure is a basic responsibility for anyone asking the public for trust and votes. Integrity means following the same rules everyone else must follow, especially when transparency is involved.

When candidates delay legally required disclosures, it naturally raises questions about openness and accountability. Public office requires honesty, professionalism and respect for the law.

Dr. Annie Bukacek has consistently been upfront with voters and has demonstrated a willingness to serve with transparency. Join me in renominating a candidate of character and integrity in the June primary: Dr. Annie Bukacek.

Bret Bailey, Lakeside