Posted: January 12, 2012 at 8:48 pm

Political Quick Hits

Quote of the Day

The Billings Gazette ran an article today announcing the Democratic candidates running for office this year. One man who had been through the 2011 session got right to the point.

“We don’t need to waste our time talking about whether we should or should not secede from the United States,” said Rep. Bill McChesney, D-Miles City. “I’m not here to do that. I’m here to ensure that my kids and their kids have an opportunity for a good education, a good job and a solid future in the state of Montana.”

Amen.

Something…Different

Here is an interesting item from Congressional candidate Diane Smith. It is kind of a strange way to announce yourself, but maybe standing out gets you noticed. See for yourself.

Leadership Troubles

The top Republican legislator in the GOP House of Representatives says he’s waiting “to see whether another Republican candidate surfaces” before deciding to run again himself. Speaker of the House Mike Milburn (R-Cascade) is termed out of the House but is eligible to run for the Senate seat that encompasses his house district. That seat is currently held by Democrat Brad Hammlett.

“I’ve thought about running for the Senate against Democrat Brad Hammett, but haven’t decided yet,” Milburn said. “I’ll wait and see whether another Republican candidate surfaces and then decide.”

All things being equal it is unusual that the top Republican legislator would be so fearful of opposition from within his own camp. It suggests that Republicans are not as unaware of the disastrous nature of the 2011 Legislative Session as they publicly pretend to be.