Thanks to all who ran for office

I thank everyone who took the incredible leap of faith to run for elected office in the face of this turbulent political environment. After one of the most negative elections cycles I have ever seen, I can only propose that most voters want to hear what you stand for, not why your opponent is scum. I am amazed and gratified that truly dedicated people who actually want to be public servants and represent the interests of their constituents, not their own selfish interests, still run and face the relentless attacks and misrepresentations on who they are and what they believe. I especially thank those candidates who ran on the strength of their conversations and meetings with every class of people across Montana to hear their concerns and needs. I applaud those candidates who ran on their policies and not on the amount of lying or questionable practices that they thought necessary to win an office.