BOZEMAN ELECTIONS

Democracy Instead of Politics?

By Nancy Mahoney, 11-08-05

So today is the day we elect three new city commissioners. According to today’s Chronicle the city has record voter registrations—up 5,000 from previous city elections two years ago, to more than 24,000. Whether that will turn into record turnout remains to be seen. Heavy snow this morning may have kept some voters away, but sunshine this afternoon means polls should be easier to reach before they close at 8 p.m. tonight.

This election seems marked by a lack of, well…politics. There has been little in the way of mud-slinging and negative campaigning. And because the elections are non-partisan, candidates have decidedly focused only on local issues and steered clear of the hot-button issues that are dividing the nation. This has been refreshing. Maybe that is how it is supposed to be – a large number of qualified candidates, not without their differences, but who are really concerned with what is best for Bozeman as it continues to experience rapid growth.

So far both the Chronicle, and our own Marjorie Smith (as well as many downtown residents—judging from lawn signs), have endorsed Sean Becker, Jeff Rupp and Kaaren Jacobson. Their combination of experience and long-term residency seems attractive to many. The Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce endorsed Rupp and sole incumbent candidate Lee Hietala. Erik Henyon and Dawn Smith have received much support, and all seem worthy candidates.

So go vote, and enjoy democracy in action. These are the folks who have our city in their hands for the next several years. That is no small matter.

Stay tuned lection results, New West will be posting them as soon as we have reliable information.

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