Meeting Monica Lindeen

Tonight I was in on a conference call that Monica Lindeen held with a group of Montana bloggers. I wasn't sure what to expect exactly, but I have to say that it wasn't what I got.

In the past, I have spoken up against Denny Rehberg record and practices mainly because I despise his kind of politics. I have written very little on Monica herself. Truthfully, other than meeting with her briefly at a Tester event, I know very little about her. I blame that on the failure of Montana media to get out any meaningful stories about her. In my mind, that is a terrible disservice to Montanans.

After meeting with Monica tonight, I have to say that I have new reasons to take up this issue. I was surprised by how much I liked this lady; her personality and the way that presented herself. I admired her passion on the issues that are important to all of us. More to the point, I really got the feeling that they were more than talking points with her.

1. Energy. She is committed to sustainable energy sources and oil independence. We all know this from the big green bus she is touring around the state in. My initial thought was 'gimmick' and 'lip service'. Now, I am sure I was wrong. This is a very important issue, anyone who has filled up at the pump for $3.50 a gallon knows that this is a very important issue.

2. Campaign finance. Jay at 4&20 Blackbirds asked her if she could change any one thing what it would be. Her answer really surprised me. She said that she would take all the rich fat cats that were buying elections right out of the system so that the common man got to have a say in politics again. A politician who wants to return power to the people! Let's face it, it used to be one man one vote, but the sick amounts of out of state money that has been flowing into Montana elections lately threatens to destroy that.

These are just a few of the issues that we discussed. I honestly came away from the phone call with a new perspective on Monica Lindeen. You should make up your own mind though. Don't wait for the Montana press to fill you in and don't decide from 30 second TV spots. Visit her website, see what her positions are on her site or Project Vote Smart. She is touring the state, so find out when she will be in a town near you and go and find out about her in person. This is very important to all of us and our future and we all have a duty to educate ourselves.