Primary concern

As the date of the primary election approaches, we need to make some careful considerations. The deadline for voter registration for the primary has passed, so now it becomes extremely important for all registered voters to prepare to cast their ballot for the most qualified candidates.

The individuals elected will be making decisions that affect the very essence of our lives, so all of us should learn as much as possible about every candidate before making our choices. Since there are nearly as many different points of view as there are registered voters, it is unlikely that any candidate will be a perfect choice for all voters. Therefore, it makes sense to make our selection based on a broad set of criteria rather than on a "single" issue.

Often we discover there are more areas of agreement than areas of disagreement. A vote for a candidate should be cast on the basis of that candidate's integrity, general accessibility and ability to understand and truly represent the voter's concerns, not on success in posting the greatest number of political signs.

As a Democratic candidate for House District Nine, I encourage every registered voter in my district to contact me and discover whether or not I have the necessary qualifications to be their representative in Helena in 2007. Recent legislatures have been unnecessarily contentious and I would encourage greater willingness to listen to all sides in a bipartisan manner. I like the direction taken by Gov. Schweitzer, and as a political moderate I will seek to do what is best for our state and its citizens.

We may not agree on every issue, but I am more than willing to consider your input. I am listed in the phone book, and I can provide an e-mail address on request.

Edd Blackler,

Bigfork