Let’s hear from the other side

by Chip Lindenlaub, Conner

Thank you for the one article in the Nov. 12th issue of the Bitterroot Star, “Tony Hudson—Republican on a Mission” by Victoria Howell and the column “Discord in the GOP” by Rep. Bedey. Since the Star prides itself on objective reporting, I would like to read a front page report written by Victoria Howell which provides Mr. Hudson’s opponents an opportunity to explain their position. Your readers and voters need to hear both sides of the issue in order to make an informed decision. Also, I would appreciate more reporting regarding the trial in Mr. Hudson’s case that was held in Ravalli County District Court. Is it true that the lead defendant was not given adequate time to find an attorney and was forced by the judge to represent himself in court?  

In the “Discord” piece, Rep. Bedey states that he refused to respond to a questionnaire from the party of which he is a member—a  questionnaire that, when answered, would help inform voters of Rep. Bedey’s positions on issues. His concern is that the questionnaire and potential Party endorsement is biased. Certainly, voters in his district are intelligent enough to determine if that is the case. Rep. Bedey writes that he wants a “big tent” party but then he describes those in control of the Republican Party, the overwhelming majority of the party, as “narrow, right-wing” conservatives. Later in the article, Rep. Bedey wrote, “I must confess to being a traditional Reagan Republican with a conservative disposition…” Ironically, we old-timers remember that moderate Republicans initially rejected Mr. Reagan because they considered him too conservative.

In the 2025 legislative session, Rep. Bedey and Rep. Llew Jones, Montana’s legislator in perpetuity, passed HB2, a huge budget increase supported by nearly every Democrat and opposed by the overwhelming majority of Republicans. I suspect those Republicans more willing to work with Democrats than their own party were exactly the type of Republicans to which Reagan objected. So, which is it, big tent moderate or Reagan conservative? In this instance Rep. Bedey’s rhetoric doesn’t match his actions.

We need politicians, journalists, and citizens who seek the truth. I look forward to reading an equal space piece written by Rep. Bedey’s primary opponent. Rep. Bedey and Mr. Hudson have had their say. It’s time to hear from the other side.