Well the elections are in full swing and with absentee ballots going out in early October, newspapers, billboards, and airwaves are already filling up with howling messages to vote for or against someone or something. I recommend that you do. How's that for nonpartisan?
I also recommend that you think about what happens after November 2nd. Many of you are making personal investments by putting up yard signs, knocking on doors, and writing checks to your favorite candidates and causes. And that's all good. We're not afraid of an active and informed electorate. In fact, the more informed you are the better for our state since most people recognize the benefits of self government and free enterprise when they see them. But all that effort, passion, and learning can go to waste if the people we elect in November don't follow up on their promises in January when the legislature meets.
That's where MPI comes in. We're your insurance policy - or maybe your policy insurance - against wavering and waffling by your electoral investments. We'll be providing our elected officials with hard data, usable information, and practical ideas to tackle the serious problems Montana is facing. And we'll be watching to make sure they do what they were hired to do - ensure that legitimate government functions are provided as effectively and efficiently as possible.
The kickoff for this process is our
Legislators' Forum on November 16th in Helena. We'll have
national, state, and local experts talking to our new (and experienced) legislators about cutting government waste, reforming our broken budget system, respecting property rights, and getting our kids the best education for the dollar. Former representative
Duncan Hunter will also provide the lunch keynote with an informative talk about current national security issues. This landmark event will have people talking all year, and
you're invited!
So, don't forget to renew your policy insurance this year by
supporting MPI, and then come to Helena in November to learn more about what the people we send there should be doing. We'll save you a seat!