As we prepare to exercise our franchise between today and Nov. 4, I encourage voters to consider the candidacy of Tom Burnett, running to represent HD 63 in the state legislature. Tom can speak for himself (and has) on matters of policy and principles. He has a website at www.tom-burnett.com that is a good place to start. I can speak personally on his character and leadership qualities.
In the years since I have known him I have observed him in personal relationships and leadership positions. The first word that comes to my mind is "dependable". Tom makes and keeps commitments. I have always found him to be scrupulously honest. His word is good and he can be counted on. He has been a leader in church, volunteer, and civic organizations, holding positions of trust that required good judgement, discretion, confidentiality with personal information, and responsibility with other people's money, all of which he exhibits.
Woody Allen famously said, "80% of success is showing up." I don't know what percentages Mr. Allen would give for excellence, but Tom does much more than show up. He comes with energy, motivation, creativity, and an inquisitive mind. He gives more than another 20%, and is more than successful. I would call him "excellent".
Tom embodies the ideal of the citizen legislator; he has a great spirit of volunteerism and service, which he has repeatedly demonstrated to me through his actions. He is also loyal, a trait undervalued in modern American culture. He has a strong sense of duty and will be a loyal public servant for HD 63. I believe he is right for Montana.
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Tom:
I have never before donated to a political cause, rather donated to charitable organizations. However, your editorial on Montana families and government, and our ensuing conversations impressed me, to make an investment for the families of Montana. Thanks for working hard to make a difference. - R. Darrow
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Once again, thank you very much Tom, and the best of all luck in your bid for a seat in the House of Representatives.
You have a kind and generous heart.
I hope the people of Montana have the good fortune to have you represent them and enrich their lives for many years to come. - Steven K.
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Tom, I haven't been this excited about a political campaign since voting for Ronald Reagan in the 1980's! And what's this with only being able to contribute $130 to your campaign? I can't contribute $500? - A. Clark
Endorsements:
Craig Steen, Ken Vail, Bob Appleby, Wil Avril, Keith R. Burnett, Arden Bruce, John Tengelsen, Andy Bruce, Mr. and Mrs. G. S. Burkhart, Diane Baker, J.D. Clark, Jack Clarkson, Tim Cranston, Huguette Coghlan, Reed Darrow, Heidi Dougherty, Gerald Goldenstein, Jordan Hein, Michael Hetherington, Van K. Haderlie, Gary Lewis, Jack Lowry, Paul L. Lochridge, J. Ned Myers, Heidi Obray, Don Poulsen, Terry Povah, Melissa Casper, William O. Richards, Shauna Sticht, Joanne Tengelsen, Kent Wilson, Ray White, Mark and Katy Winward, Dwight and Jeanette Seamons, McRay Evans, Bruce and Janna Christensen, John and Betty Free, Joyce O. Sandquist, William H. Oyler, Theodor Hebnes, George McWilliam, Gallatin Association of Realtors, National Rifle Association, Montana Shooting Sports Association, Montana Agricultural PA, Ed McCrone, Elina McCrone, Dennis Diteman, James Owen
