By Mary Fahnestock-Thomas, Hamilton
I find it endlessly frustrating that, so often, the political candidates who have and/or spend the most money on their campaign tend to get elected. I don’t know whether it’s because they put out the most big signs and, therefore, have greater name recognition, or because people prefer to vote for candidates with a lot of money.
And because of the way our society has developed, it tends to be men who have and can therefore spend the most money. History has made that true, but as a strong, independent, Montana woman, I find it frustrating that women candidates are therefore often at a disadvantage or even overlooked altogether.
I always hope to elect people I like and respect, not necessarily people with a lot of money, and seems to me that used to be tradition in Montana. If you feel the same way, please keep your eyes open for signage, but please also consider voting absentee, because then you will get your ballots in the mail a month before the election and can really be aware of and maybe do some research on who is running for what and what special initiatives are on the ballot.
Any legal resident of Montana who is 18 or older can vote absentee. Go to https://sosmt.gov/elections/absentee/ to find out how or, in Ravalli Country, call (406) 375-6550 or stop by 215 South 4th Street in Hamilton and talk with Regina Plettenberg or one of her assistants — up the front steps and first office on your left as you go through the door. It’s easy … and responsible.
