Jackson is still making excuses

Editor,

My opponent, Verdell Jackson, continues to make excuses for accepting thousands of dollars in special interest and lobbyist money (Leader, Oct. 5)

His fundraising history clearly shows more of the same from Helena-insiders: giving lobbyists more power than they deserve.

He has taken thousands of dollars in special interest money, yet claims this money has no influence. Common sense folks know different.

A great example: Verdell took money from the tobacco firm RJ Reynolds in 2002. Then in the 2005 legislature he voted against HB 643, which banned smoking in public areas. Thankfully it passed overwhelmingly.

I will never accept special interest money, no matter what the dollar amount. It is the principle of the matter for me. My first commitment is to put the people of Montana ahead of any political party or lobbyist.

If you are tired of business as usual in Helena — if you believe Montanans are more important than political parties and lobbyists — then I am your candidate.

Ric Smith

SD 5 Candidate

Finley Point