by Mike Wood, Missoula
I’m a long time Montanan who loves this state and its independent traditions, and I’m writing to encourage folks to vote in favor of I-194. The premise of I-194 is grounded in the traditional Montana values of honest and open communication, of Montanans coming together to discuss, argue and collaborate through our political systems to make Montana better. Contrary to the disinformation you may hear from opponents of the initiative, every Montanan WILL retain their individual constitutional right to contribute money or other in-kind resources to any political campaign, candidate, or ballot initiative under I-194, and we will know who contributed what amount.
Rather, I-194 prohibits monetary or in-kind contributions from corporate, nonprofit, LLC, trust, partnership, trade association, and union sources, because names of the political contributions from these entities is hidden from view (a.k.a. dark money). Under I-194, you’ll know exactly who is funding a campaign, candidate, or ballot initiative, and those funders would have to stand by their actions in public. Being forthright and standing by your word (or money) is as Montanan as you can get! Political power in Montana rightfully belongs to the PEOPLE of Montana, not hidden behind the dark shield of corporations and other “artificial persons”. Help protect our Montana independence and please vote for I-194.
Leave a Reply