Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer (D) nominated Jennifer Hensley of Butte to be the next Commissioner of Political Practices.

Previously I wrote about the Commissioner’s job HERE and HERE.

Before I get started, I don’t know Jennifer Hensley from Jennifer Aniston.

In my December 15, 2010, column I wrote, “…any person who’s chosen for the position and who has been on one side of the political fence or the other will just cause problems for the office.”

It was reported that Hensley worked for U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D) and that she is married to State Senator Steve Gallus (D). As an olive branch to the Governor, it was reported that Hensley said her husband would not be running for elected office as long as she holds this job (he is currently term-limited).

So, I guess everything in the world of Montana Political Practices will be okie dokie…

But those are just a couple of major issues that will be hard for Hensley to overcome as the next Commissioner of Political Practices.

Tester just happens to be running for reelection in 2012 (and all other state-wide seats are on the ballot) and if past elections are any barometer, there will be many complaints filed. Money will be flying into this state from every corner and group in the country.

Montanans need to feel that “the referee” appointed to ensure the boys and girls play fair is not privately cheering for one team or the other to win.

The Montana Commissioner of Political Practices is a thankless job. As I wrote before, “As commissioner you are appointed by a politician (Governor) and voted on by politicians (state senate) to oversee political campaigns. Something just seems funny about that…”

Now, if Hensley is confirmed by the State Senate, we’ll have someone in the job that worked for a politician and is married to one. Maybe this is funny…

Now, anyone who files a complaint who does not come from Hensley’s political side of the fence will have the feeling that they won’t get a fair shake because of her strong ties to the Democrats.

Additionally, those who are from her side of fence political fence, will have the feeling they have a friendly ear to quickly hear their concerns.

Perception is everything.