Republicans' sample ballot was helpful

I have always exercised my right to vote. I make every effort to research the candidates to determine if they hold my same values. Unfortunately, with Montana's open primary system, it is sometimes difficult to determine if a candidate truly believes what he or she says.

Mr. Bill Breen pointed out in a recent letter to the editor that there was little, if any difference in the county commissioner race between the Democrat candidate, Joe Brenneman, and four of the so-called "Republican" candidates who filed for the commissioner race.

I believe, based on my own research, that Democrat candidate Joe Brenneman is a long-time activist in the "green" group, Citizens for a Better Flathead.

Therefore, it sure was a breath of fresh air when the Flathead County Republican Assembly provided a very helpful sample ballot that included their endorsements in the primary for county commissioner and other important races.

For the primary, I was able to look at a sample ballot provided by the Flathead County Republican Assembly and could trust their judgment, because the Assembly asks candidates their stand on important issues. This allows voters to make an informed decision.

Bill Breen's letter has reinforced my belief in the service the Republican Assembly provided.

In the future, I hope to have one of those sample ballots with me every time I go to the polls. Thanks to the effort of the Republican Assembly, I believe I voted for a candidate for county commissioner that holds my bedrock Republican beliefs.

Thank you Flathead County Republican Assembly, and thank you Bill Breen for pointing out the need for this organization.

Isabel H. Larsen

Kalispell