Billi articulate, passionate about his beliefs

Though Georgia is my home state, Montana feels like a second home to me because it’s the state I visit every year to enjoy the great outdoors. More than any other place, it refreshes my appreciation for America — not only its natural beauty but also the values that make it so special among nations.

Those values include practicing character, integrity and responsibility; living for the future, not just the here-and-now; respecting the lives and property of our fellow citizens; and taking charge of ourselves through entrepreneurship and civic involvement. We excel as a people because most of us don’t expect the government to do these things for us.

Now I have another reason to appreciate Montana and his name is Chet Billi, candidate for the state legislature in House District 5. At a time when young people in droves show little interest in public affairs or, worse yet, are caught up in supporting proposals and candidates that would bankrupt the country, it’s refreshing to see a young man step up to the plate and defend what’s right.

Since I’ve come to know Chet Billi, my hope for the country’s future has grown. He’s articulate and passionate. He tells you what he believes, not what he thinks you want him to say. He understands that government has nothing to give anybody except what it first takes from somebody and that a government that’s big enough to give you everything you want is big enough to take away everything you’ve got. When a young man or woman stands up for these principles, he or she ought to be thanked and encouraged. What a model for others!

I wouldn’t presume to tell Montanans how to vote. However, I can say that you can be proud to have raised up a fine young man and candidate like Chet Billi. All I can ask is that you consider him seriously and let your conscience be your guide in the voting booth. Were he running for office in my district, I would proudly give him my vote in a heartbeat.

— Lawrence Reed, Georgia