A general definition of “opportunism” is the conscious policy and practice of taking selfish advantage of circumstances, with little regard for principles.

Many politicians are opportunists. They like to insert themselves into events in hopes of getting on camera or getting their name in the paper.

With some of the reporters here in Montana being on their initial gig in the news world, many of them are “star-struck” when they get approached by a Governor, a Senator, or even a local commissioner – they don’t ask tough questions nor do they ask themselves if printing or interviewing the politician really has anything to do with the real story.

Some “seasoned” reporters are too lazy to really care; they just go along with the show and do not want to make waves.

The politicians use the young inexperienced reporters to their advantage. You can’t really blame the politicians – the free publicity is there for the taking – and they do take it. They sleep well at night because, well, they are politicians.

We see this a lot with our military members leaving for war or coming home from the war – a politician shaking hands like he really understands what it’s like to go off to war – like they know what it’s like for the family to be left at home without their husband or wife or mother or father.

The politicians may call it “support” but most of us veterans see it as opportunism.

We saw it yesterday when Great Falls, Montana, resident, Walter Breuning, turned 114 years old. It was a big event with many news organizations showing up to get the story.

Since it was a newsworthy event with lights, cameras, and ink for the taking, politicians also took advantage of the event to get a little free publicity. They kind of are drawn to the lights and ink like a moth.

How can you go wrong congratulating a 114 year-old fellow and sending a copy of your birthday wishes to the media in hopes they will print or mention your message or say that you were there or sent well wishes? It was a win-win situation.

Governor Schweitzer showed up for the birthday bash. He was wearing a suit and tie which is really newsworthy. Senator Max Baucus stammered through a statement and introduced a resolution on the Senate floor. Senator Jon Tester sent a birthday card and issued a press release telling us he sent birthday wishes.

Yes, opportunism is alive and well.