On Sunday, I completed and mailed back my primary ballot. Don’t forget to vote!

As I mentioned in a previous commentary, it was a tough choice to select which primary ballot to use for the Montana Primary election. I think they should change it by putting all the candidates on one ballot for the primary and the top two vote getters would face off in the general election.

My Ballot:

Although I did have to select only one ballot with which to cast my primary votes that did not prevent me from leaving one race blank although there was only one person running for that office. I know it won’t keep this person from getting into the General Election, but when that election comes around, I will vote for the opponent.

By the way, it really felt nice not coloring in the circle by this person’s name. I imagine it will feel even better in November. If this person loses the election, I will quietly celebrate the small victory for the underdogs of the world.

I placed a stamp on the envelope so my ballot would make it back to the county elections office through the U.S. Mail. Since the return address on the envelope is the county elections office, I guess it would make it there whether I affixed the correct postage on none at all.

Political Advertising:

As I travel the state, I have noticed campaign signs sprouting up just about as much as the dandelions pop up in spring. Some candidates have spent their money on billboards along well-traveled streets.

I don’t listen to local radio that much, but when I have I’ve heard a few spots from the candidates. I’ve seen one or two ads on TV, too. I’ve not heard any ads that I felt were that good or that made me want to immediately color in the circle for that candidate.

I’ve heard some ads from a few current office holders endorsing other candidates who have contested primaries. I don’t agree with this because it’s hard to kiss and make up after the election even if they say it isn’t. It creates some animosity in the political parties, too. But ultimately, it is a current office holder’s choice to stick their neck out for their friend.

It’s always a tough choice for a candidate on where to best spend their campaign money. The bigger the office, the more those choices are made by managers or consultants who also want to make sure they get paid.

Primary Season:

The primary election for Montana is June 8 and several states have primaries in June and August is a big month, too.

You can view the list of the states with primaries HERE.

Don’t forget to vote!