France aims to bring policy experience to SD 47

Democratic candidate Tom France is hoping to bring advocacy experience to Senate District 47 seat. 

After building a career advocating for Montana’s wildlife in the halls of government, Tom France is vying to represent the state’s residents of Senate District 47.

A lawyer involved in many high-profile conservation efforts, France currently serves as a senior director for the National Wildlife Federation. The Democrat from Missoula said that with his youngest daughter recently gradating high school, he felt it was the right time to run for office.

“I feel it’s important to engage in community service,” France said. “This is the time for a new challenge.”

France said he plans to draw on his experience working with various groups and interests while serving the dynamic legislative district, which stretches from the outskirts of Missoula north, through the west side of the Mission Valley. France said he has proven his ability to with a cross-section of constituents, from farmers to tribal lawmakers to outdoor enthusiasts.

“I think it will be a fun district to represent because of its diversity,” he said. “I’m sure I’ll have to put on my sportsman hat, my farmers hat and my lawyer hat.”

In addition to demographics, the Democrat said he has also experienced a broad range of political leanings during his door-to-door campaigns.  

“Working with Republican issues has certainly been a major goal for me,” he said.  “Most issues lend themselves to finding compromise.”

France said the overarching challenge of the next legislative session will be weighing public need against rigid state funding sources. In addition to helping balance the budget, France said he will support the trademark Democratic social issues, such as funding women’s healthcare services.  

“I think it’s a constitutional right for people to make medical decision, including abortion,” he said. 

France said that various interests groups and organizations have approached him with ideas on policy moving forward, but he has maintained his focus on the election. 

“Its kind of amazing the amount of material a candidate receives,” he said. “I appreciate those interests wanting to inform, but it’s really hard to focus.”

If he makes to Helena, however, France said he plans to lend an ear. 

“I believe lobbyist can be an aid to legislation,” he said. “The good ones at least.” 

Despite the deluge of information, France said he has enjoyed running for office. For the first-time candidate, the experience has lived up to the challenge he anticipated. 

“I knew it would be a lot of work,” France said. “I have not been disappointed in that sense.”