Know all about the PSC candidates

Editor,

Being a Montana Public Service Commissioner is reported to be a very, very challenging position. It is said that the commissioner's job, a full-time position, is one of the most technical, the most complicated, the most complex job of all the elected positions in Montana.

Therefore, it is incumbent on each voter in District 5 to take a serious, hard look at the candidates who are seeking this important office. The PSC office is a very complex establishment, because of the utility industry in any state is very complex in itself. This is no place for a novice. It will take a well-educated, dedicated, disciplined person to fill this position.

The PSC actually is a quasi-judicial position. It makes decisions that are similar to a judgeship. Briefs are written and legal opinions are given that must be understood. Testimony is presented, acts are in dispute, and very technical matters are discussed on a daily basis in the office.

Every person who is about to vote in the PSC race needs to gather the necessary information about each candidate and make a solid, informed decision on who they think would be the best candidate. Of course, each candidate thinks he will be the best person for the job and will tell you that. But don't take their word for it; don't take the word of our neighbor, or your friends, or your political party. Get informed on your own.

Who has the best background, the best education, the best common sense? Who has the record that commands your trust? Who has the background to understand complex issues? Who has served their community, state, or nation with honor? Who can be trusted to stay the course when the going gets tough? Who has the leadership skills? Remember the next commissioner will be the tie breaker. There are currently two Democrats and two Republicans on the commission.

Please don't vote for any one of the candidates because someone else told you he is the good guy. Find our for yourself; this is too important a position to be handed out as a political favor. I encourage all citizens of District 5 to listen for themselves, to gather information on their own. There are five Republican candidates in this race; speak to them all, or call them on the phone. It is your responsibility as a voter to be informed.

I know Fred Leistiko, a candidate for the PSC. He has served our community, state and nation with honor. He has proven he can take the heat and handle things when the going gets tough. He is a man of honor, someone with credibility and an ethical background that his opponents will not be able to attack. He has my vote and the votes of many of my friends.

Gilbert (Gib) Bissell

Kalispell