LETTER: Defending Jackson

In a letter to the editor, Jackie Ladner stated that my husband, State Sen. Verdell Jackson, described his job representing Senate District 5 as “a night job.” This is not true! He has never said this. Also, it does not even make sense. The legislature meets every other year for four months. Legislators work long hours six days a week during this time. Between sessions they are on one or two interim committees, meeting in Helena about once a month. Verdell was on the Energy and Telecommunications Interim Committee for 2009-10. He also attends many meetings on various issues of interest to his constituents. He frequently visits with constituents on issues by phone, e-mail or in person. His e-mail address is vjack@centurytel.net.

Verdell is a retired educator and raises grass hay. Ms. Ladner also stated that Mr. Blackler would be a “full time senator.” Does this mean he would quit his job for four years if elected? Montana has a citizen legislature. A senate term is for four years which includes eight months residence in Helena. Legislators are public servants and must keep their regular jobs as the legislative salary is about $5,000 a year.

— Linda Jackson, Kalispell