by Archie Thomas & Merry Schrumpf, Corvallis
A “dysfunctional local Republican party” best describes the content of Dana Gentry’s letter of 1/17/24. This is a scary insight into the internal decay hollowing out the national as well as local GOP. This local central committee writer rambles on about a party platform violation without specifying which part was violated or how.
Followed by a rant about SJ 15 legislative defeat concerning overturning the balance of power as defined by the US Supreme Court, is another example of nonsensical political static over which the average Montanan doesn’t give a damn. Anybody who was awake during their 8th grade civics class would have better insight into the application of the US Constitution, effective actions or better use of time by the Montana legislature.
The last Republican controlled legislative session in simplest terms spent a state budget surplus enabled due to the American Inflation Reduction and American Rescue Plan. Both acts were opposed by the National and State Republican party. Montana Republicans would have little to spend without these Acts.
The Montana Republican legislature further allowed increased property taxes and added a tip income tax; thus collecting additional millions in taxes while decreasing taxes on corporations like NorthWestern Energy and high income individuals. The average Montanan is left settling for a one time income tax rebate, higher property taxes and forever a new income tax on their hard earned tips. Maybe future Montana taxpayers will get lucky inheriting an old mansion from the governor and the honor to donate their tips for its maintenance.
Gentry’s letter is presented as the views of the local Republican central committee, quoting: “It is ‘We the people’ who determine the original intent of the Constitution, by voting in legislators who will uphold our ideals.”
Do local voters know their legislators answer first to the local central committee?
Do Ravalli County voters know they elected the Ravalli County Republican Central Committee, their ideals and interpretation of the US Constitution?
Alan says
Internal decay? Would you prefer that the republicans behave as democrats and be lock stock and barrel party line? Makes one ponder whether Democrats vote on behalf of the party, or the people they were duly elected to serve.
Gomez says
I’m guessing that you’re Libertarian, right?.