Opinion: Bradford believes we're all in this together

I was at a candidate meet-and-greet the other night. The weather was perfect. The food was good. The crowd was on top of the issues and eager to learn more. It was everything Lake County deserves in this era of ugly, divisive politics.

Our speaker was Dalton Bradford, a sharp young man who grew up here, owns a home, pays taxes in the community, and is running to represent all of us in House District 13.

The key word is all. During the Q&A portion of the night, someone asked Dalton what will set him apart from his opponent if we send him to Helena. His response was lighthearted but captured a fundamental truth. He said:

"I don’t care if they’re a D or an R or a purple people eater, I’ll work with them to get things done for you and this community."

Dalton sincerely meant it. He’s one of those rare people who naturally connects with everyone, is always willing to lend a helping hand, and focuses on finding common ground where others see division. He doesn't demonize people, nor does he play dirty tactics.

Of course, he holds strong opinions and clear ideas. But Dalton is always ready to roll up his sleeves and work alongside anyone – even those who don't share all his views – as long as they’re working toward the shared goal of keeping Lake County livable and affordable.

Get him to talk about property taxes, healthcare access or protecting our public lands, and you immediately see how deeply committed he is to our community.

Dalton is exactly the leader we need right now, someone who brings us together because he truly believes we’re all in this together.

– Susan Jensen, Polson