Politics is the art of choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable. – John Kenneth Galbraith

Unless a great Libertarian candidate for Montana’s open At-Large House seat is nominated to run, the choice between Democrat Rob Quist and Republican Greg Gianforte will be a tough one for this blogger. Maybe it will be a tough choice for you, too.

So heads-up to these candidates and their staffers – you have some selling to do in the next 79 days.

Here are some of my thoughts about the race between Rob Quist and Greg Gianforte.

Both candidates are probably pretty nice fellows. I don’t think I have ever met either. Both have some baggage. Both seem to represent their political parties pretty well, but it seems this race will be between a far-leftie and a far-rightie.

Since my views range from somewhat conservative to somewhat liberal on those political tests, I find myself in a pickle.

If you’ve read my commentary on this website very much, then you know that I am tired of Montana’s U.S. House seat being used as a stepping stone for some other office or position.

In the past, those holding that seat have let their egos take over (Rehberg, Daines, and Zinke) and have put their own wishes ahead of the state. We end up at the bottom of the seniority list because nobody will stay in the seat long enough to gain some seniority.

I don’t really care if my only U.S. House member is a Democrat or a Republican – I just want someone who wants to do the best job possible. We need a person who wanted the job and someone young enough to be able to stay in the seat and gain some clout for Montana.

I don’t really feel that way with Quist or Gianforte.

Rob Quist is 69. If elected, I don’t see him wanting to stay in the grind of being Montana’s lone House member for very long. I read somewhere that he would stay in the seat for as long as the people wanted him. That was the correct answer to give. Being a U.S. Representative is not a few night shows on the road each week. This is a two-year tour (less in this special election) in which the folks who work at the airports will see more of him than his family – and he will need to be campaigning and raising money year-round. By the way, there are a lot of jerks in the U.S. House, where everyone thinks they are class president.

Greg Gianforte is 55. If elected, he might stay in the seat a little longer, but he seems like he is looking for something bigger – with a brighter spotlight. Gianforte told the Associated Press that he would seek at least two terms if he wins the special election this year. That probably means he will run for Governor in 2020 and not pay too much attention to his job in the U.S. House if elected. This race is kind of like a “rebound” romance for Gianforte since he lost the gubernatorial race to Steve Bullock in November. At least he’s getting right back on the horse!

Quist has a gun issue to deal with which is normally a killer for any candidate who wants more gun control in Montana. Quist was talking about assault rifles and gave the Republicans the perfect line to attack him with, “You register your car to drive, why not register guns.” He was talking about assault rifles, but he’ll need to spend some money to get that point across. He also has some other liberal or progressive stands that he will need to defend.

A GOP super PAC went after Quist the day after he won the nomination with a $700,000 ad buy in Montana. Before that, Gianforte was on the air promoting himself – even before he won the nomination. These two things just make the mountain harder to climb for Quist. The Democrats will need to have “all hands on deck” to help Quist be successful.

As for Gianforte, the Bullock campaign has the notes on how to beat him: He’s very rich and he is not from around these parts, plus he sued the state over stream access, and he once advocated for a sales tax in Montana.

I think Gianforte really needs to come across as a kinder and gentler person in his commercials – to me he comes across as a know-it-all smart ass. A few of my friends told me they said, “Not again” (or worse) when Gianforte recently started airing more campaign commercials.

In the next 79 days, I hope we’ll see a few debates between the candidates so I can get an answer to the burning question: Quist or Gianforte?

Quist or Gianforte? You Pick:

NOTE: Don’t forget to take The Western Word poll which asks, “Who do you want to be the next U.S. Representative for Montana?” CLICK HERE.

The results will be published in my “Thursday Numbers” column.

*Rob Quist Campaign website

*Greg Gianforte Campaign website

## END ##

I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend. – Thomas Jefferson

Today I provide independent commentary about the following items for this edition of The Wednesday Read:

• Trump’s Tax Return
• Scott Sales & Cyclists
• John Parker – District Court Judge

Trump’s Tax Return:

For a little while Tuesday night, the political world was watching Rachel Maddow of MSNBC. About an hour and a half or so before her show, Maddow tweeted that she had President Trump’s tax returns. Then about an hour later she tweeted that she had the 2005 tax return – the 1040 form.

The excitement was building, but then the White House got involved.

The Associated Press reported that before Maddow went on the air, the White House confirmed the documents were real and stole the headline by saying that Trump’s income exceeded $150 million in 2005 and that he paid $38 million in income taxes that year.

Then Maddow went on the air and milked the news like she was getting ready to open Al Capone’s vault on live television. Someone posted on Twitter “Rachel Maddow announces she will release Donald Trump’s tax returns as a 10-episode Netflix series.”

Maddow received the two pages of the tax returns after they were sent to David Cay Johnston, founder of the website DCReports.org, from an unknown source. Clay gave them to Maddow.

Maddow received some criticism from the White House and from Fox News personality Sean Hannity for releasing the documents. Yawn.

This morning President Trump tweeted:

Does anybody really believe that a reporter, who nobody ever heard of, “went to his mailbox” and found my tax returns? @NBCNews FAKE NEWS!

So we know a little about Trump’s income and taxes in 2005. We don’t know who sent the documents to David Clay Johnson, but with the problems with the healthcare bill and with the problems surrounding Trump’s claim he was wiretapped by former President Barack Obama, maybe the Trump team leaked them to take those two issues off the front page for awhile.

Stranger things have happened.

Scott Sales & Cyclists:

Just an observation from my bunker, but I don’t think Montana State Senate President Scott Sales (R) likes cyclists that much. Lee Newspapers reported this week that during the discussion of a bill to provide more safety to cyclists, Sales was quoted saying the following:

“They’re some of the most self-centered, rude people navigating on the highways and county roads I’ve seen. They won’t move over. You can honk at them. They think they own the highway.”

It was also reported that Sales wants to tax cyclists who are over 16 years old $25 per year for road maintenance. Ouch. Republicans taxing people they don’t like – imagine that!

I don’t think Sales would need to look far to find a bunch of “self-centered” and “rude” people. First, he should look in a mirror. Then if he looks closely, he will find that many “self-centered” and “rude” people are his fellow state legislators “navigating” the halls of Montana’s capitol.

John Parker – District Court Judge:

When I first read that Cascade County Attorney John Parker had been appointed Cascade County District Court Judge, my first thought was, “You can’t be serious.”

I’ve written a lot about Parker here at TWW – and it’s not been good. This pick was made by Governor Steve Bullock to fill the vacancy created when Dirk Sandefur was elected to the Montana Supreme Court.

I would not have selected Parker. Several years ago I said he should resign as County Attorney. Just about any attorney, in good standing, would have been a better selection.

It is my hope that someone runs against Parker when he has to run for a full term.

There’s some good news! The good news is that Cascade County will be getting a new County Attorney. People have to be smiling about that.

## END ##

May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light, May good luck pursue you each morning and night. – Irish Blessing

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include the Montana Legislature’s party-line votes, the “America First” budget, Sean Spicer & wiretapping, Sean Hannity & Jihad, McDonald’s tweet, and much more!

Party-Line Votes:

To say it sucks to be in the minority in the Montana House of Representatives would be an understatement. The Democrats probably did not need to show up for the budget bill (HB 2) vote on Thursday, but they did. MTN News reported that the Democrats tried 25 times to amend HB2, and each time they lost on mostly party-line votes 59-41.

It was like watching a one-sided football game where one team scores a touchdown every time they had the football.

About all the Democrats could do was make a few comments on the House floor and tweet about it. The state party sent a press release about “the massive cuts” to try and embarrass the Republicans.

There might be a chance or two that when the bill gets to the state senate, some Republicans might vote with the Democrats on key issues.

Since I am a “glass half full” person, let me point out the Democrats have one thing to be proud of, and that is they worked hard enough to get Democrat Steve Bullock re-elected as Governor. Maybe Bullock can fight to restore funding for some programs.

Let me also point this out to the Montana Democrats – It’s not the end of the world, but you can see it from Helena…

The “America First” Budget:

The first budget from the White House could be called the “cold-hearted” budget or the “chickens have come home to roost” budget or the “tough love” budget.

Of course, we are $20 trillion in debt. That’s $20,000,000,000,000.

We need to cut back on spending; everyone probably agrees with that – as long as they cut funding for programs that don’t affect them.

The bottom line is that this budget is just a start – a proposal. The final product will look a lot different after Congress has their say. Relax.

You can read the White House budget HERE. You can read the transcript from the press conference where White House Press Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney answered questions HERE.

Sean Spicer & Wiretapping:

Thursday’s White House daily press briefing was an instant classic. It was delayed for almost an hour maybe because the leaders of the Senate Intelligence committee, Richard Burr, R-North Carolina and Mark Warner, D-Virginia, had issued a statement just before it was to begin. The statement contained this shocking information:

“Based on the information available to us, we see no indications that Trump Tower was the subject of surveillance by any element of the United States government either before or after Election Day 2016.”

The first question for Sean Spicer was from Jonathan Karl of ABC News:

It did not get much better for Spicer after that. I think Saturday Night Live has all the material they need for their next “Spicy” skit.

Sean Hannity & Jihad:

I’ll admit that I used to watch Fox News a lot and I listened to Sean Hannity take on the liberals. One day it was like a lightbulb came on and I started watching other cable news channels to get the big picture (not just from the right side).

During the Obama years, Fox News went after him pretty hard. Some might say we have Donald Trump because of Fox News.

Now Sean Hannity is saying that there is a “corporate jihad” being waged by NBC News against President Trump.

Please.

The thing that Hannity does not understand is that President Trump is giving the media plenty to report about. It’s not a jihad, it’s reporting.

McDonald’s Tweet:

McDonald’s claims their Twitter account (@McDonaldsCorp) was hacked when someone posted this tweet:

“@realDonaldTrump You are actually a disgusting excuse of a President and we would love to have @BarackObama back, also you have tiny hands.”

When I first read the tweet, I thought maybe McDonald’s was trying to say since the President has tiny hands that the new “Mac Jr” sandwich would be just right for him.

The tweet was quickly deleted, but as you can see nothing is really deleted. This is especially true of the photos and recordings being taken by your microwave…

One More Thing:

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
-Irish Blessing

## END ##

The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it. – William James

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include the Montana Legislature, healthcare, unemployment, Meals on Wheels and Colin Kaepernick, U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch, approval rating, Elmo, Chuck Barris, NCAA Basketball men’s basketball tournament, World Baseball Classic, and much more!

150,000,000

That’s how much Montana Governor Steve Bullock (D) wants to spend on infrastructure projects. The Republican legislature has infrastructure plans ranging from $33 million to $90 million. (AP)

106,000,000

The Legislative Fiscal Division forecast Monday that Montana will have $106 million more in the state’s general fund than the revenue estimates lawmakers are now using to write the next two-year budget. (AP)

With this finding, the Legislature should not raise fees or taxes…

1,000,000

According to a recent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report, one million more Americans would have health insurance with a clean repeal of Obamacare than with the Republican replacement plan. (NY Times)

The Republicans need to take their time and gather ideas from all sides before they replace Obamacare.

258,000

That’s how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

50,000

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick recently donated $50,000 to Meals on Wheels as part of a series of donations to charities he has made since last year. (TheHill.com)

Meals on Wheels is a great program.

56

That’s the percentage (56%) of voters in The Western Word poll who say U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch should be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. 39% voted “No” and 6% voted “I Don’t Care.”

Thanks for participating!

37

President Donald Trump’s approval rating drops to 37% in new Quinnipiac national poll. His worst score ever. 56% disapprove. (Quinnipiac)

Trump needs to win at something.

32

There’s a video showing Elmo’s (Sesame Street) reaction after getting fired from PBS due to budget cuts from the Trump Administration. Elmo has been employed by PBS for 32 years. (AP)

Sad news – Elmo says he will lose his company-sponsored health insurance. He claims he has a pre-existing condition. God bless you, Elmo…

27

At one point in Chuck Barris’ career, he was supplying the television networks with 27 hours of entertainment a week, mostly in five-days-a-week daytime game shows. Barris, age 87, died this week. (AP)

Barris had a wonderful career.

16

That’s how many teams remain in the NCAA Basketball men’s basketball tournament which starts again today. (ESPN)

Kansas plays in Kansas City which should feel like a home game. That may give them the advantage to make it to the Final Four.

1

Team USA won its first World Baseball Classic championship last night by beating Puerto Rico, 8-0. (USA Today)

USA, USA, USA…

##END##

Better to fight for something than live for nothing. – George S. Patton

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include 59 Tomahawk Cruise Missiles, the Nuclear Option, U.S. Senator John McCain, Announcing a Response, Governor Steve Bullock’s veto, and much more!

59 Tomahawk Cruise Missiles:

The New York Times reports that yesterday the United States carried out a missile strike in Syria in response to the Syrian government’s chemical weapons attack this week, which killed more than 80 civilians. The Pentagon announced that 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles had been fired at Al Shayrat airfield in Syria. The missiles were aimed at Syrian fighter jets, hardened aircraft shelters, radar equipment, ammunition bunkers, sites for storing fuel and air defense systems.

I think it was the right thing to do and the right amount of response. We can’t allow the use of chemical weapons, period.

President Trump issued a statement in which he said all the right things, but his delivery was terrible. He has a hard time with the teleprompter. The microphone seemed to be having problems, too. You can read his statement HERE.

Many folks are just happy the President did not use nukes.

Some people pointed out that if Trump cares so much about Syrians, he should allow their refugees to come to the United States. Those comments have merit.

A few members of Congress believe that Trump should have been given authorization from Congress before launching the missiles. That debate would have gone on forever. I do not think that it is necessary to obtain the authorization from Congress in this situation.

The Nuclear Option:

The U.S. Senate on Thursday held a series of votes and after the mushroom cloud subsided, the Republican majority changed the rules by using the nuclear option. Now Supreme Court justices can be confirmed by a simple majority. With that move, Supreme Court nominee Neal Gorsuch should be confirmed today (Friday) afternoon.

The Democrats cleared the way for lower court judges to be confirmed by a simple majority a few years ago.

I noticed that it was pretty quiet during the voting like senators were watching an old friend die. Maybe they were thinking they can never put the toothpaste back in the tube, now.

Republicans and Democrats are equally to blame for this mess. Republicans held back on hearings for President Obama’s choice, Merrick Garland, and Democrats believe they stole the seat and now they have Gorsuch. Republicans claimed the Democrats were obstructing the confirmation of Gorsuch.

The next vacancy on the Supreme Court will be interesting.

As for legislation, the Senate still has the 60 vote rule to end debate. I expect that will be flushed down the toilet in the future when some piece of important legislation is being considered. The senate was supposed to be the chamber that takes their time and debates. The senate is supposed to the deliberative body.

In the future, the U.S. Senate will be just like the U.S. House, except with fewer members.

McCain & the Nuclear Option:

The Daily Caller was one of many organizations that reported on U.S. Senator John McCain’s comments about changing the Senate rules to prevent a filibuster on a Supreme Court nominee (also called the “nuclear option.”). Here is the quote from McCain:

McCain dismissed the notion Tuesday that changing the Senate rules to prevent a filibuster on Supreme would put the chamber in a better position, saying anyone who thinks it would be beneficial is a “stupid idiot.”

“I would like to meet that idiot, I’d like to meet the numskull that would say that,” he told reporters. “That after 200 years, at least 100 years of this tradition, where the Senate has functioned pretty well, they think it would be a good idea to blow it up.”

The leaders in the senate (both Democrats and Republicans) have made a serious mistake changing these rules.

Sadly, McCain voted for the change. Cluck, cluck…

Announcing a Response:

As a former member of the military, it has always bothered me when politicians get in front of a camera and tell the world what the plans are for a military response. Often the politician does this to get a little publicity. What they could be doing is putting our military in harm’s way.

President Donald Trump knows very little about the military, but one thing he is doing right is not telling the press what his plans are in response to attacks or provocation from others. In a briefing this week when Syria was brought up, Trump had this to say:

Well, one of the things I think you’ve noticed about me is, militarily, I don’t like to say where I’m going and what I doing. And I watched past administrations say, we will attack at such and such a day at such and such an hour.

A little later, Trump stated, “I’m not saying I’m doing anything one way or the other, but I’m certainly not going to be telling you…”

Some in the press said he must not have a plan because he won’t disclose it. I did not believe that and I guess I was right because Trump did respond.

Bullock Veto:

The Associated Press reported that Montana Governor Steve Bullock vetoed a bill that would have banned Shariah and other foreign laws from being used in Montana courts, saying Thursday that the measure would “upend our legal system and debase what we stand for as Montanans and Americans.”

Good for Bullock. Good for common sense.

One More Thing:

We should all do what, in the long run, gives us joy, even if it is only picking grapes or sorting the laundry. – E. B. White

##END ##

There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that which is lost by not trying. – Francis Bacon

Today’s quick hits deal with:

• Sanders & Quist
• Won Battle/Lost War
• Mail-Only Voting
• Montana Legislature & Infrastructure
• Thank You Scott

Sanders & Quist:

A story posted Saturday on The Huffington Post website reports that current U.S. Senator and former Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) “has offered to travel to Montana to help boost insurgent House candidate Rob Quist.”

Montanans may remember that Sanders won the Democratic Primary for President in Montana by about 9,300 votes over Hillary Clinton.

I like Sanders. He may be just what Quist needs to generate some excitement for his race in Montana.

Won Battle/Lost War:

If you have read The Western Word very much then you know that I think it is a travesty the hoops independent candidates have to jump through to get on the ballot in Montana. Republican and Democrats have a monopoly on who can run for office. In the meantime, nothing much gets done, and when the legislature is in session, it is like a circus.

Three candidates for the Montana House special election filed a lawsuit about the mess, and the Associated Press reported that a federal judge sided with three would-be candidates who argued they didn’t have enough time to gather the signatures required to qualify for Montana’s special congressional election — but their names still aren’t going on the ballot.

The three candidates have now filed a notice of appeal with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Although they may not win the war, they did win a smaller battle. The Montana legislature should take note and change the requirements. The current way it’s done is unconstitutional, not to mention virtually impossible to comply with.

Mail-Only Voting:

The Associated Press (AP) reported that Montana Governor Steve Bullock revived debate over mail-only voting on Friday when he used his veto power to rewrite a routine bill to allow counties to conduct the May 25 congressional election by mail.

There’s just a small chance that Bullock’s maneuver will help, but he should be applauded for at least trying to save Montana some money for this special election.

Shame on the Republicans who opposed the mail-only voting bill.

Montana Legislature & Infrastructure:

After reading the report from the Associated Press, “Lawmakers take final swing at infrastructure package,” I thought that people are probably looking at the problems the Montana Legislature is having coming up with an infrastructure plan that they can all agree on the wrong way.

Montanans should believe from the beginning of the legislative session that the 150 members won’t accomplish much of anything to help the state. Montanans should also believe that the legislature will embarrass the state in some way, that partisan politics will get in the way and the majority party will shoot themselves in the foot trying to lead.

If Montanans look at it that way, then anything the legislators do accomplish will be a miracle – like a walking on water miracle…

Thank You Scott:

Huff Post reported the Saturday Night Live skit, ‘Thank You Scott,’ is an “Anthem For Lazy Armchair Activists.” Enjoy…

We are all Scott…

##END##

Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing. – Theodore Roosevelt

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include the new commissioner of political practices, Special Election and U.S. Supreme Court, Shooting TVs & Computer Monitors, Alan Mikkelsen, Legalizing Marijuana, and one more thing!

Commissioner of Political Practices:

The new commissioner of political practices for Montana will be Democrat Jeff Mangan from Great Falls. Mangan is a former state legislator.

It did not seem the state senate gave his nomination much consideration or allowed for the public to have much input. The Associated Press reported:

In a whirlwind 24 hours, former Democratic legislator Jeff Mangan was appointed by Gov. Steve Bullock, coasted through a Senate committee hearing and was confirmed as commissioner of political practices on a 48-1 vote.

If I was in the state senate, I would have voted no on his confirmation.

I did not care for Mangan as a legislator. When he was a member of the Great Falls International Airport Authority Board, I thought he did a terrible job.

Soon Republicans will be bitching and griping about his decisions, although they have had session after session to fix or replace the office of political practices.

Special Election Going to U.S. Supreme Court:

Three candidates who want to run in the U.S. House special election in Montana are taking their case to the U.S. Supreme Court. The Associated Press reports:

Thomas Breck, Doug Campbell and Steve Kelly asked the nation’s highest court Thursday to place their names on the May 25 ballot. A federal judge and a federal appeals court each declined similar requests.
The candidates say that Montana’s ballot-access laws don’t give independent candidates and voters a meaningful opportunity to participate.
The state required the candidates to collect 14,268 voter signatures by March 6. The special election was announced March 1.

Although they probably won’t win, they have given the issue of running as an independent candidate in Montana some much-needed publicity. The Montana legislature needs to change the rules and allow independent candidates to run for office the same way Democrats, Republicans, and Libertarians do.

Good job boys!

Shooting TVs and Computer Monitors:

Public Service Announcement: If you own a television or a computer monitor, please make sure you secure them.

Why?

In their new campaign ads, candidates in the U.S. House special election are showing just how much they love the second amendment by shooting televisions and computer monitors.

You can view the ad from Greg Gianforte HERE.

You can view the ad from Rob Quist HERE.

This has been a Public Service Announcement from The Western Word.

Alan Mikkelsen:

Congratulations to Alan Mikkelsen on being named the deputy commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation by Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke. (Flathead Beacon)

Mikkelsen is a great choice and he brings a wealth of experience to the job. He will do well.

Legalizing Marijuana:

A new CBS poll shows support for legalizing marijuana is higher than ever:

Sixty-one percent of Americans think marijuana use should be legal, a five-point increase from last year and the highest percentage ever recorded in this poll. Eighty-eight percent favor medical marijuana use.

I’ve long favored marijuana being legalized for recreational use. I would like to see the question placed on the ballot in 2018.

One More Thing:

The term “breaking” is being used way too much in emails these days. So here is some real breaking news: It’s annoying. Stop it.

Take for example the campaign for Rob Quist. It seems the Quist campaign has taken it to a whole new level. Probably two out of three of their emails have “breaking” in the title. It may be getting old with them, too. In one email they titled it “Serious update.”

Seriously?

The worst offenders are those who send “Breaking News” emails when the news is hours old. I’m looking at you Helena Independent Record. Just stop it or hire someone to send actual breaking news.

##END##

The secret of success is to be ready when your opportunity comes. – Benjamin Disraeli

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include the Montana budget, postal service, unemployment, Montana Democrats & Greg Gianforte, 40th Helicopter Squadron, 112th day, survivalist, Peyton Manning, Vladimir Putin, Donald J. Trump, Jr., & Montana, Comey & Trump, Rob Quist’s barn, and much more!

10,300,000,000

Montana Governor Steve Bullock signed a two-year, $10.3 billion budget bill this week. (AP)

Now we’re talking real money…

562,000,000

The postal service on Wednesday reported a quarterly loss of $562 million. (AP)

They may try to raise stamp prices again, so it’s time to stock up on forever stamps! They should also close a bunch of post offices.

236,000

That’s how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

7,460

The Montana Democrats claim that this is the amount in campaign donations Brad Huempfner and his family donated to Greg Gianforte and Republicans. Huempfner appears in one of Gianforte’s campaign commercials about public stream access.

The Montana Democrats contend, “that’s the price you have to pay to fish near Gianforte’s mansion off Manley road” and they point out that is much more than the $29 most Montanans pay to fish anywhere else in Montana.

This spring would be pretty boring if not for the special House election…

417

A UH-1N Iroquois crew assigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron (HS) at Malmstrom AFB near Great Falls, Montana, rescued an injured male in the Little Belt Mountains near Wheatland, Montana, May 7 at approximately 11:15 a.m. The rescue marked the 417th save for the 40th HS. (Malmstrom Press)

The 40th HS provides a valuable service. Salute!

295

This is the 295th Thursday Numbers column here at The Western Word.

Thank you for reading! Please tell your friends about The Western Word! 

112

Today is day 112 of the Trump Presidency!

There’s an old saying that may fit what we’ve witnessed in the first 112 days of the Trump Presidency: I’ve been to three county fairs, a turkey shoot, and witnessed a one-legged ass-kicking contest and I have not seen anything like this.

23

A 23-year-old woman who went missing last week while hiking in a Montana wilderness area south of Glacier National Park has been found alive, along with her dog. (AP)

Survivalist!

18

The Indianapolis Colts will retire Peyton Manning’s number 18 and unveil his statue this upcoming season. (Yahoo Sports)

I like Manning better now since he is retired…

6

Russian President Vladimir Putin scored six goals and had five assists in a hockey match. He also told CBS News he had nothing to do with FBI Director James Comey’s firing by President Donald Trump. (The Guardian)

Putin would have really freaked people out if he would have said, “Comrade Trump did exactly as we ordered when he fired Director Comey. Our plan is progressing very well.”

4

Donald J. Trump, Jr., will be making four stops in Montana today (May 11) to campaign for U.S. House candidate Greg Gianforte. He will be campaigning in Helena, Butte, Sidney, and Great Falls.(Source)

Prairie Dogs – take cover!

3

In his letter firing FBI Director James Comey, President Donald Trump wrote, “While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgment of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the bureau.” (CNN)

That sentence is really weird, but I guess Trump needed to make sure the world knew that he was not under investigation.

3

U.S. House candidate Rob Quist owns a barn with three apartments, but according to Lee Newspapers, state property tax records don’t indicate the Quists are being taxed for the three apartments. (Lee Newspapers)

I imagine Quist and his family will be glad when this campaign is over. It’s like his campaign takes one step forward and then bad news knocks them two steps back.

##END##

Equality is the soul of liberty; there is, in fact, no liberty without it. – Frances Wright

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include the Pence visit, Bullock & cellphones, Special Election fliers, Gallup poll, Trump Derangement Syndrome, Montana Ag Summit, and much more!

Pence Event:

Vice President Mike Pence is coming to Billings today (Friday) to campaign for U.S. House candidate Greg Gianforte.

Since it’s an awfully long way to fly Air Force 2 just to campaign, Pence will also do something official-looking so that taxpayers will have to pay part of the bill.

It was announced by MTN News that Pence will tour the Westmoreland Coal Company’s Absaloka Mine on the Crow Indian Reservation before the campaign rally. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and Sen. Steve Daines will join Pence on the tour of the coal mine.

Meanwhile, the Gianforte rally is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. at the MetraPark Pavilion.

Bullock Vetoes Cellphone Bill:

If you have read my comments about cellphone bans, then you know I think there are several other things that I think can cause distracted driving. I think cellphone bans are a waste of time. I also think local communities like Great Falls are using the cellphone ordinance to raise money.

A bill (HB 562) that passed the Montana Legislature with bipartisan support would have basically capped the amount that cities like Great Falls can fine people for driving while using a cellphone. It was vetoed by Governor Steve Bullock. Shame on him.

Now our inept commissioners and mayor can go wild and raise lots of money.

Montana needs our police officers out there combating drunk drivers, which is a real problem.

Special Election Fliers:

As of this morning, I have received five fliers via the postal service, and one was left on my door. All were Pro-Gianforte and paid for by Republican groups:

Maybe the Democrats should cut down on a few of their emails and send some fliers themselves. It might help Quist a little.

Healthcare, Government Dissatisfaction/Leadership:

Those are the two issues that people say are the most serious problems facing the United States according to a recent Gallup Poll. Immigration/Illegal aliens were a distant third.

Check out the whole poll results HERE.

Trump Derangement Syndrome:

If you listen or watch CNN, MSNBC, CBS, ABC, and NBC then you’re hearing that the Trump Administration is in big trouble and they are the gang that can’t shoot straight.

If you watch Fox News, especially “Hannity” then you’re hearing that all the liberal media wants to do is destroy President Trump. Hannity says they suffer from Trump derangement syndrome.

Both sides make some valid points.

The Trump team cannot seem to send a clear message about anything. At press briefings and when key people are out defending the President, we find out later that what they said was incorrect.

Some people on the networks believe that it’s Armageddon time for the President and every misstep is treated like it is impeachment time. We then hear comparisons to Nixon.

Sadly, Trump is learning on the job. He’s never had this much scrutiny from the media. He does not seem to have anyone on his team who can tell him to shut up.

Meanwhile, “we the people” get to sit back and watch the events unfold on our favorite television station – you know – the one that tells us things we like to hear.

Public Service Announcement:

Mark your calendars…

May 31- June 1 in Great Falls

One More Thing:

God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers. – Rudyard Kipling

Happy Mother’s Day 2017!

##END##

It is wise to direct your anger towards problems – not people; to focus your energies on answers – not excuses. – William Arthur Ward

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include Tester wants answers, new fees and taxes, the Senate health care bill, 60 pounds of stuff, and one more thing!

Tester – “All I want are some damn answers”

U.S. Senator Jon Tester received some publicity from the media this week for his questioning of Acting Indian Health Service Director Michael Weahkee during a Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee hearing. The hearing was about President Trump’s proposed budget and its impact on the Indian Health Services’ workforce.

Tester asked Weahkee seven times if the President’s proposed budget increased or decreased the funding for health care workforce recruitment and retention at Indian Health Service facilities. Weahkee refused to answer Tester’s question.

Tester said he would back Weahkee until his “guts cave” if the administration comes after him. He still did not get an answer.

Tester then used the line “All I want are some damn answers” which is not as great as the Joe Biden line, “This is a big *&%$# deal,” or Tom Cruise saying, “I want the truth,” but it might win him a few votes.

This outburst is good for Tester’s reelection effort. It will also make a good campaign commercial.

The two worst-run agencies in the Federal government are the Indian Health Service and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Tester has been on committees that oversee these agencies for most of his time in the Senate.

$25 Million in New Vehicle Fees:

If you’re wondering why gas has not dropped under $2 per gallon this summer in Montana, thank the Republican-controlled state legislature and Governor Steve Bullock, a Democrat, for raising gas taxes 4.5 cents per gallon.

MTN News reports that as of this month, everyone gassing up in Montana is paying higher fuel taxes – but Montana drivers also face $25 million in higher vehicle-related fees over the next two years.

The Republicans and Democrats love the word “fee.” They raise fees all the time and then tell folks they did not raise taxes. This past session, they actually did both.

Remind me once again which party is for lower taxes and smaller government…

New Senate Health Care Bill:

The Republican leaders in the U.S. Senate unveiled their latest health care bill on Thursday. It is 172 pages and can be viewed HERE.

It looks like this bill will have a hard time passing, also. (AP) (Reuters) (Roll Call)

Maybe after they find out this bill won’t pass, members of Congress will work together to make health care better for all.

60 Pounds of Stuff:

The Washington Examiner reports that President Trump said he wants his proposed border wall with Mexico to be see-through so that border agents don’t get hit with “large sacks of drugs” being thrown over the wall.

As an example, Trump said:

As horrible as it sounds, when they throw the large sacks of drugs over, and if you have people on the other side of the wall, you don’t see them — they hit you on the head with 60 pounds of stuff? It’s over.

Maybe they could just put a sign on the wall that says, “Before throwing drugs over the fence, please yell ‘Heads-up’ so you won’t injure someone.”

One More Thing:

Did you hear the one about a man trapped inside an ATM and writing notes on the transaction receipts to customers to try and get help?

It happened at an ATM in Corpus Christi, Texas. Read about it HERE.

I guess things really are bigger in Texas…

##END##

Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres. – John Dryden

Today I provide independent commentary about the following items for this edition of The Wednesday Read:

• Health Care (Daines & Bullock)
• Public Policy Polling (Nixon vs. Trump)
• Sheriff Edwards & Sheriff Taylor
• Check your Calendar

Health Care:

For the past seven or so years, the Republican Party ran on repealing and replacing Obamacare. Remember all those meaningless votes in the House to repeal it?

One would think that the Republicans would have worked out the details a little better – they had seven years to get a bill ready to go.

It’s been an epic failure. The Senate Republicans look as though they are a few clowns short of a circus.

Now, they may try to vote just to repeal Obamacare and replace it within two years. It looks as though they may not even have the votes to do that. They actually did vote to repeal it a few years ago and it passed, but this time it is for real.

The talking points are already written for just repealing it. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects 32 million people would lose their health insurance.

So if they do repeal it and say they will replace it within two years that puts us smack-dab in the middle of the 2020 election cycle (Hello Steve Daines). I can see the campaign commercials already: “Steve Daines voted to terminate the insurance coverage of 32 million Americans and left them with no insurance.” Then they can show a Montana family who lost everything because one of them became sick.

Then Steve Bullock comes on the screen and says, “I’m Steve Bullock and I approved this message.”

What they should do is repair Obamacare now. They should work together.

Public Policy Polling:

Their newest poll is out and it’s not too kind to President Donald Trump. Here are two questions that caught my attention:

They asked, “Who do you think is more corrupt: Richard Nixon or Donald Trump?”
Richard Nixon- 35%
Donald Trump- 42%
Not sure- 23%

They also asked, “Who do you trust more: CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, New York Times, Washington Post, or Donald Trump?”

Every news organization beat Trump in the trust category by double digits.

Check out the rest of the poll HERE.

Sheriff Edwards Update:

The Great Falls Tribune reported that if Cascade County Sheriff Bob Edwards is found guilty of the misdemeanor partner or family member assault charge that he now faces, it would put an end to his days of carrying a firearm, according to federal law.

The Tribune also reported that Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki said the sheriff is not required under the state Constitution to carry a gun nor is he required to be certified with Public Safety Officer Standards and Training.

It looks like Edwards could be the next Sheriff Andy Taylor. Taylor, who was the fictional sheriff of Mayberry, North Carolina, was played by Andy Griffith. He did not normally carry a gun, although his deputy, Barney Fife carried a gun but only had one bullet that he kept in his shirt pocket.

If found guilty then I think Edwards should resign. This isn’t Mayberry.

June 9, 2016:

Please – everyone – I need you to check your calendar for this date (June 9, 2016) to see what you were doing.

Why? This is the date that Trump, Jr., met with the Russians in New York City at Trump Tower. Since they are having problems determining who attended this meeting, I thought maybe if everyone checked their personal calendars we could find out.

Thanks – let me know!

##END##

When it comes to the game of life, I figure I’ve played the whole course. – Lee Trevino

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include Mega Millions, losing health insurance, unemployment, fact-checking the President, John McCain, Fox News Poll, drought disaster, Donald Trump, White House briefing, working together, the sixth month, and much more!

248,000,000

That’s the jackpot for the Mega Millions lottery Friday night. (MegaMillions.com)

32,000,000

That’s how many people will lose their health insurance by 2026 under the Senate plan to repeal Obamacare. (CBO)

That’s not good.

233,000

That’s how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

836

The Washington Post’s “Fact Checker” claims that at the six-month mark, President Trump’s tally for false or misleading claims stands at 836. That’s an average of 4.6 claims a day. (WaPo)

Pinocchio would be proud…

80

It was disclosed Wednesday night that U.S. Senator John McCain, age 80, has brain cancer. McCain has glioblastoma, one of the most common but also one of the most malignant brain tumors. It can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation, but medical experts said it almost always grows back. (NY Times)

Get well soon, Senator! Prayers for you and your family.

74

A new Fox News Poll shows that 74 percent want GOP lawmakers to reach out to Democrats and try to find a compromise on health care. That includes 86 percent of Democrats and 59 percent of Republicans.

If they stopped being so partisan, they could accomplish a lot.

28

Montana Governor Steve Bullock issued an Executive Order declaring 28 counties and five Indian Reservations in a drought disaster. (MT.Gov)

They are Blaine, Big Horn, Carter, Chouteau, Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Fergus, Garfield, Golden Valley, Hill, Judith Basin, McCone, Musselshell, Petroleum, Phillips, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sheridan, Treasure, Valley, Yellowstone, Wheatland, and Wibaux Counties and the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, Rocky Boy Indian Reservation, Crow Indian Reservation, and Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation

22

According to Public Policy Polling, that’s how many people (22%) said if Donald Trump shot someone on 5th Avenue they would still approve of the job he’s doing as President. (PublicPolicyPolling.com)

Another 16% were unsure and 62% said they would disapprove.

It looks like the rock-bottom line of support for Trump is around 22%…

21

It has been 21 days since the last on-camera White House briefing, which was June 29. (ABC News)

I miss the daily fun!

13

The Associated Press reported that Americans overwhelmingly want lawmakers of both parties to work out health care changes, with only 13 percent supporting Republican moves to repeal “Obamacare” absent a replacement, according to a new poll. (AP)

6

Today (July 20) marks the 6th month of the Trump Administration.

Which person in the new administration will be the first to go to jail?

##END##

Age wrinkles the body. Quitting wrinkles the soul. – Douglas MacArthur

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary on today include the Sound of Freedom, Mug Shots, Pardons, O.J. Simpson, One More Thing, and much more!

Sound of Freedom:

The USAF Thunderbirds are in Great Falls for two air shows this weekend. Hearing them do some practice flights reminded me when the Air National Guard in Great Falls had jets – I called it the sound of freedom when they flew over the city.

It was on the watch of U.S. Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester, Representative Steve Daines, and Governor Steve Bullock that Montana lost the jets – a mission that Montana had in one form or another for over 60 years.

The Montana Air National Guard now has C-130 cargo planes. Some civilian folks and elected officials called getting the C-130s a win. They were placed in Great Falls as kind of a consolation prize for taking our jets. Montana lost big time in that deal.

There will be upwards of 50,000 people at the air show. By the way, you can bet they will be there for the jets – not for the cargo planes.

The Mug Shot Saga:

I think the back and forth about Congressman Greg Gianforte getting a mug shot and fingerprinted is getting a little old. It’s well past time for the judge to make a ruling so the losing side can appeal and we can move on.

In case you missed it, here is the issue courtesy of the Bozeman Daily Chronicle:

Gianforte, 56, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault for “body slamming” Guardian newspaper reporter Ben Jacobs on the eve of Montana’s special election in May.

At the sentencing hearing — where Gianforte received a six-month deferred sentence and was ordered to complete 40 hours of community service, 20 hours of anger management and pay $385 in fines and fees — the congressman was also ordered by Gallatin County Justice Court Judge Rick West to report to the Gallatin County jail to give booking information, including fingerprints and a mug shot. The defense objected.

The prolonged fight from Gianforte’s legal team just makes me wonder what the real issue is with his mug shot and fingerprints…

Pardon Me?

You know things are tough when you are already looking for guidance on how to pardon yourself, your family members, and aides.

The Washington Post reported the following about Robert S. Mueller’s Russia investigation:

Trump has asked his advisers about his power to pardon aides, family members and even himself in connection with the probe, according to one of those people. A second person said Trump’s lawyers have been discussing the president’s pardoning powers among themselves.

It’s like, “Can we throw the pieces back in the box and start this game again.”

O.J. Simpson:

O.J. Simpson, age 70, is going to be paroled around October 1, 2017. When he gets out he won’t be out on the streets.

He has an NFL pension that some have said will pay him $25,000 per month. Others say the NFL pension will pay him over $100,000 per year. He may already have a half million in the bank depending on when he decided to take the pension.

Some reports say Simpson invested $5 million many years ago in a Screen Actors Guild for a pension.

I see a lot of golf in his future.

One More Thing:

In regard to President Trump not being able to get the Republican Senate to pass health care legislation, a Republican Senator told the NY Times off the record:

“The president, he said, scares no one in the Senate, not even the pages.”

##END##

Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses. – Alphonse Karr

Today I provide independent commentary about the following items for this edition of The Wednesday Read:

• Graham-Cassidy
• Corey, Corey, Corey

Graham-Cassidy:

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) is predicting that he will get 50 Republican votes on the amendment to repeal Obamacare and replace it with his amendment called Graham-Cassidy.

The Hill reports that Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), Susan Collins (Maine), and John McCain (Ariz.) are undecided. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has said he cannot support it.

The Graham-Cassidy amendment should not pass.

Any reasonable/caring person would not want to be subjected to the provisions in the amendment. If you have a pre-existing condition (like most of us do), then we’re screwed because insurance companies can charge us more. The amendment would also kill a lot of essential benefits.

We don’t know the score of the amendment yet from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). A bipartisan group of 10 governors has already come out against it. That includes Montana Governor Steve Bullock.

The Republicans want to pass this quickly before procedural rules change in two weeks that would make it harder. The Republicans in the Senate and House should stop the madness.

It’s time to concentrate on repairing ObamaCare and making it stronger.

Corey, Corey, Corey…

Although there’s already been a lot written about it in Montana newspapers and in blogs, I wanted to add my two cents.

Montana Secretary of State Corey Stapleton is under fire from almost every corner of the state for claiming there was voter fraud in Montana.

Then there wasn’t. Or there was. Or the media did not report it correctly. Who knows the correct answer?

The Billings Gazette editorial board took him to task for the mess. You can read it HERE.

The editorial board even went as far as to say when Stapleton decided to send his chief of staff to a hearing (probably because it was too hot an issue for the big guy to attend), that:

We feel sorry for Stapleton’s chief of staff, who had to read a letter riddled with grammatical errors.

Ouch.

In the final graph, the Gazette went on to add:

There is fraud, Mr. Stapleton, and it’s been perpetuated by you on the citizens of Montana when you’ve given them a reason not to trust the results of a free and open election.

Stapleton should put a stop to this goofiness, now.

##END##

Free speech is meant to protect unpopular speech. Popular speech, by definition, needs no protection. – Neal Boortz

9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals:

The Associated Press reported that the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Montana’s limits on direct contributions to political campaigns are justified in trying to prevent corruption or the appearance of corruption while still allowing candidates to raise enough money to run a campaign.

I don’t think the decision will stand.

Basically, money is speech these days. We are already far down a path that allows the rich and powerful (big money) to influence elections.

It did give Governor Steve Bullock (D-Mont.) the opportunity to say, in part, that “Elections should be decided by ‘we the people’ — not by corporations, millionaires, or wealthy special interests buying more television ads.”

That’s a great line. The other side will say that corporations, millionaires, or wealthy special interests have rights, too.

Here’s something else for Bullock and his fellow politicians to consider: “We the people” are growing tired of the endless campaign commercials that are built on lies and half-truths. “We the people” are tired of the politicians getting elected and then putting their party above people.

I’m looking for candidates who are “Team America,” instead of “Team Democrat” and “Team Republican.”

Matt Rosendale:

From the outside looking in, it looks like current State Auditor and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.) has a lock on ultra-conservative endorsements this election cycle.

Last week, Rosendale received an endorsement from Steve Bannon and the Great America Alliance. At the end of his press release/fundraising letter about the endorsement, Rosendale closes with, “P.S. This is our chance to remove a liberal crony, and replace him with a conservative who will work with President Trump to Make America Great Again!”

This week, the Rosendale campaign announced that he was being endorsed by the Tea Party Express. Rosendale said that he was “honored” that the Tea Party Express had thrown their support behind his campaign – He also added that they recognize he is “the leading conservative candidate in this race.”

With these endorsements, he just may be “the leading conservative candidate in this race.”

Plus, he just successfully ran a state-wide race. I’d say at this time Rosendale is the leader of the Republican pack. I still think the 2018 Senate race leans safe Democrat. Incumbent Senator Jon Tester will be very hard to beat. He’s taken out two of the strongest Republicans in 2006 and 2012. It would be fun to watch him and Rosendale discuss what a “liberal crony” is during debates, though.

You Need to Know:

If you are a candidate or on the staff of a candidate, please send your press releases to me (western_word@yahoo.com). Follow me on Twitter (@TheWesternWord) and I will follow you back. Subscribe to this blog and visit The Western Word Facebook page by clicking HERE.

You will feel better if you do – and you will gain knowledge.

The Western Word was established in 2005 and provides independent commentary about politics, sports, the media, and current events.

##END##

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. – Winston Churchill

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include Montana’s budget, Papa John’s, unemployment, lifetime pass, walking alone at night, U.S. coal production, family members on campaign payroll, teams that have not won a World Series, Marsy’s Law, Houston Astros, fall back, and much more!

227,000,000

A deal on fixing the state’s $227 million shortage in the state budget could materialize in coming days and a special session could follow shortly after, the governor’s budget director said Wednesday. They plan on using a combination of budget cuts, temporary tax increases and moving funds around. (Lee Newspapers)

Hopefully, they will work together to fix the problem and not act like spoiled children when they get to Helena.

70,000,000

The net worth of John Schnatter, founder and CEO of pizza chain Papa John’s, fell $70 million in less than 24 hours after the company released its third-quarter financial report on Tuesday afternoon. Schnatter blames part of the downturn on the National Football League, which has faced turbulence amid widespread national anthem protests in the past year. (Forbes)

I always heard the second million is easier to make than the first million…

229,000

That is how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

80

Senate Bill 521 would make the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass available at a cost of $80 to any veteran who was separated from military service under conditions other than dishonorable if the veteran provides specified proof of that status.

U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) is a sponsor of the bill.

30

Three in 10 Americans are afraid to walk alone at night in an area within a mile of where they live. This ties the lowest level of concern since Gallup first asked this question in 1965 and is substantially below the high point of 48% recorded in 1982. (Gallup)

Be careful out there…

11

That’s how many members of Congress have paid family members from their campaign accounts so far this year, according to an analysis of Federal Election Commission (FEC) data through the end of September. (The Hill)

Nice work if you can get it…

7.8

Fox News reports that U.S. coal production jumped nearly 8 percent in the past year, a far cry from the more than 30 percent decline in production over the past decade.

This is good news for those people still in the coal industry…

7

With the Astros finally winning a World Series title, there are now seven teams that have never won a World Series. Check out the list HERE from USA Today.

5-2

Montana’s high court struck down the voter-approved victim’s rights law, called Marsy’s Law, as unconstitutional on Wednesday, in a split 5-2 opinion that said voters should have been able to consider the multiple aspects of the law individually. More than 65 percent of voters backed the law in an initiative last November. (AP)

That is a shame.

4-3

The Houston Astros beat the Los Angeles Dodgers four games to three in the 2017 World Series. This is the Astros first World Series title. (USA Today)

Game seven was a letdown. #HoustonStrong

1

Don’t forget to get up at 2:00 a.m. this Sunday morning to set your clock back one hour.

This was a public service message from The Western Word!

##END##

Never neglect details. When everyone’s mind is dulled or distracted the leader must be doubly vigilant. – Colin Powell

Today’s commentary deals with:

• Montana Legislature Special Session
• U.S. Air Force & the Mass Shooting
• Election Day 2017

Montana Legislature Special Session:

Governor Steve Bullock (D-Mont.) has called the Montana Legislature into a special session next week to address a projected $227 million budget shortfall. (AP)

In other words, the circus is coming to Helena next week!

Not long after the announcement, the Montana Republican Party tweeted:

Like any good liberal @GovernorBullock spent all your money and now wants to increase your taxes #KeepYourPromise #NoNewTaxes #mtpol

The funny thing about the Montana Legislature is that it is controlled by the Republicans. For the Governor, a Democrat, to get anything passed, he must have help from the Republicans. Just like we see in Washington, D.C., the Republicans in Montana are lacking in leadership.

Personally, I don’t want to see my taxes increased. I’m thinking they should cut funding to the legislative branch by three-fourths, not pay for the insurance for legislators, or any interim committee meetings. They should shut down non-essential state government services two days per week and pay those employees for only 24 hours of work per week until the shortfall is made up.

U.S. Air Force & the Mass Shooting:

We hear a lot of people say we need to enforce the gun laws we have on the books instead of making new ones. That might be true in the latest mass shooting that happened in Texas.

Several news organizations, including the New York Times, reported that the Air Force admitted Monday that it had failed to enter Devin P. Kelley’s domestic violence court-martial into a federal database that could have blocked him from buying the rifle he used to kill 26 people in a church in the small town of Sutherland Springs, Texas.

The NY Times also reported that under federal law, the conviction of Kelly for domestic assault on his wife and toddler stepson — he had cracked the child’s skull — should have stopped him from legally purchasing the military-style rifle and three other guns he acquired in the last four years.

As a former member of the USAF, I am ashamed, embarrassed, and angry that someone failed to do their job.

Someone should be severely punished for this mistake. It makes me wonder how many other people are not in the database that had ties to the military. A complete review across all branches of the military going back several years is needed.

Election Day 2017:

Today is Election Day 2017 all across the fruited plains!

There are two races for Governor in New Jersey and Virginia and a few special elections.

There are local elections, like in Great Falls (MT), where we are voting on mayor and commissioners, a mill levy for economic development, and whether to allow property owners to maintain domestic chicken hens within the city limits.

Yep, the voters in Great Falls are voting about domestic chicken hens! Is this a great country or what?

Don’t forget to vote!

##END##

Everyone should have their mind blown once a day. – Neil deGrasse Tyson

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include the special session, Montana beef, unemployment, urban chickens, mayor of Great Falls, Sutherland Springs, Montana, economic development levy, Troy Downing, Five on Black, college football, and much more!

227,000,000

Governor Steve Bullock called the Montana Legislature into special session next week to address a projected $227 million budget shortfall. (AP)

This should be fun to watch. At least the legislators, the lobbyists, and staff will make a little extra cash to spend during the holidays…

200,000,000

China’s largest online retailer has signed a deal with the Montana Stockgrowers Association to buy $200 million worth of Montana beef over the next three years and to build a $100 million slaughterhouse in the state. (AP)

I’ll take a couple ribeyes…

239,000

That’s how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

12,686

That’s how many people voted for or against raising urban chickens in Great Falls. (KRTV) The measure lost by about 600 votes.

11,772

That’s how many people voted for mayor in Great Falls Tuesday, which was fewer votes than urban chickens. (KRTV) Current Mayor Bob Kelly won reelection. (H/T @GFTrib_DMurray)

I’m thinking the famous San Diego Chicken should come to Great Falls and run for office.

450

That’s how many rounds the gunman fired who killed 26 people at in the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. (AP)

They also found 15 empty magazines which could be loaded with 30 rounds each.

128

Montana celebrated its 128th birthday on Wednesday. Montana became a state on November 8, 1889.

Happy Birthday Montana! You are looking good!

66

That’s the percentage of voters (66%) who voted against an economic development levy in Great Falls Tuesday. (KRTV)

I voted against it. I wrote about my reasons for doing so HERE.

9

U.S. Senate candidate Troy Downing (R) has pleaded not guilty to nine misdemeanor violations dealing with resident license issues. The case is pending in state District Court in Gallatin County.

A person must live in Montana 180 days prior to buying a resident hunting and fishing license. The person also must register a vehicle in Montana, file state income tax returns as a resident and not possess or apply for any residential hunting, fishing or trapping privileges in another state. (AP)

5

Five on Black, a Missoula-based restaurant featuring Brazilian-inspired food, is coming to Great Falls. Restaurant founder and owner Tom Snyder announced Wednesday that the restaurant will open a location at West Bank Landing. (KRTV)

It’s not a casino!

4

If the college football playoffs started today, the four teams would be:

1. Georgia (9-0)
2. Alabama (9-0)
3. Notre Dame (8-1)
4. Clemson (8-1)

It looks like Georgia and Alabama may meet for the SEC Championship on December 2. Miami and Wisconsin may get in the playoffs, too. (ESPN)

##END##

Don’t accept your dog’s admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful. – Ann Landers

Welcome to the big show to end the week “Caught My Eye” (CME)!

If you are a first-time visitor, CME is posted right here every Friday morning. This is when I take a look at some of the stories I did not have time to write about during the week. I often throw in a touch of sarcasm to make you smile – or to irritate you just a little – maybe both.

Topics that I am providing commentary about today include the special session, Zinke’s travel, Al Franken, House tax plan, and One More Thing!

MT Legislature Special Session:

The Associated Press (AP) story probably had the best headline, “Legislature reaches budget fix without raising taxes.’

The AP went on to explain that Montana lawmakers have agreed to a plan to address the state’s projected $227 million budget deficit without raising taxes in a complicated mix of interconnected bills that make it nearly impossible for the governor to reject any part of the plan without further cuts.

In short, we really don’t know what the hell they did. We’ll have to wait and see the details. That could take months. Remember, mistakes are made when bills are rushed.

Governor Steve Bullock announced Thursday that he planned to veto legislation that proposed furloughing state employees in the executive branch to raise at least $15 million in the biennium. (Lee Newspapers)

There was just a little stupid stuff that went on (anti-trans bill that failed), but overall it seemed pretty mild.

Zinke & Travel:

The Washington Post reported this week that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has failed to keep complete records — and in some cases, kept none at all — of his travel since taking office, the agency’s watchdog (Inspector General) told department officials this week, saying that management of Zinke’s travel was “deficient” and lacked oversight.

The Post also reported that the inspector general is also scrutinizing the travel of Zinke’s wife, Lolita, who often accompanied him on official trips. Deputy Inspector General Mary Kendall wrote that the department’s documentation was so lacking that investigators cannot determine “the full extent” of her travel and how it was paid for.

One would think that out of the 70,000 people employed by the Department of Interior, someone could keep track of Zinke’s travel and file the appropriate documentation.

Zinke’s travel problem will probably not end well for him.

Al Franken:

Leeann Tweeden accused Al Franken of groping her and kissing her without consent in 2006. That was before he was a senator. Franken has apologized. (CNN)

There are also reports that a second woman is accusing Franken of harassment.

Then, of course, we had fellow senators turn on Franken. Especially those up for re-election in 2018. Montana’s Jon Tester donated the $25,000 his campaign received from Franken to the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Missouri’s Claire McCaskill will donate $30,000 her campaign received to a Missouri-based charity.

Ironically, President Donald Trump chimed in about Franken’s situation via Twitter.

For those keeping score at home, I think the count is Roy Moore with nine accusers and Al Franken with two. The numbers can change quickly. Watch your favorite cable news network for the latest count.

As for Presidents, Donald Trump has been accused of sexual harassment by about 15 women since 1980. (Source) George H.W. Bush has now been accused of “inappropriate grabbing” by seven women. (ABC)

It’s been interesting to see this sexual harassment issue snowball over the past year.

Although politics is playing a part in all this, the disclosures have been a good thing. We need to know who the scumbags are.

House Tax Plan:

The Republican members of the U.S. House passed their tax plan by a vote of 227-205. Montana’s only member of the U.S. House, Republican Greg Gianforte, voted with the majority.

After the vote, GOP members held a press conference where they made speeches and spiked the ball.

I’m not too worried about the House bill. The GOP has the majorities in the House and Senate and a Republican President. They have not passed any significant legislation and with the Senate Republicans wanting to kill the individual mandate on Obamacare in their tax bill, I doubt we see it pass. It was going to be tough before they added the individual mandate.

So stay tuned…

One More Thing:

President Donald Trump gave a long and somewhat boring speech about his Asian trip this week. Several minutes into the speech, I felt like I was being made to watch a relative’s home movie from a recent vacation.

The most interesting part was when the President needed a drink of water. He was thirsty. Last year, he made fun of Marco Rubio for taking a drink of water during a speech.

Trump drank from a bottle of Fiji water. Twitter went wild. Click HERE for a chuckle.

One of my favorite Tweets:

Trump pulls a Marco Rubio & slurps down water during his speech. But it’s worse than Rubio. Trump holds the bottle with two hands like it’s a baby bottle.

Have a great weekend!

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The most important political office is that of the private citizen. – Louis D. Brandeis

Welcome to “Thursday Numbers!” In case you’re a first-time visitor, this is the weekly column where I take a look at the numbers that are in the news (in descending order) and provide commentary sometimes sprinkled with sarcasm.

This week’s topics include the Powerball jackpot, unemployment, Greg Doyon, healthcare enrollments, Breakfast after the Bell, CHIP, Alabama Senate, ATM, generic ballot, Jon Tester, National Park Service, and much more!

250,000,000

That is the current Powerball jackpot. The next drawing is Saturday night. (Powerball.com)

Somebody’s going to win…

225,000

That’s how many people filed new claims for unemployment last week. (USDOL)

170,000

That is how much Great Falls City Manager Greg Doyon is seeking from the City of Billings to do the same job there. The City of Billings is offering $155,000.

Doyon has also requested six weeks annually in paid vacation, $12,000 in moving expenses, an annual 7-percent deferred compensation (roughly $11,900 per year) to his retirement fund, the same cost-of-living pay increases as Billings city employees receive and the possibility of merit-based pay increased based upon annual performance reviews. Doyon was chosen from a pool of 38 applicants for the job in Billings. (GF Tribune)

Billings should move on – Doyon is not worth the extra $15,000.

40,541

Governor Steve Bullock and First Lady Lisa Bullock today announced that a total of $40,541 in private grant funding has been awarded to 10 schools to expand school breakfast programs. Through their Breakfast after the Bell initiative, Governor and First Lady Bullock have partnered with Montana No Kid Hungry to help more than 80 schools across the state serve more than 1.2 million breakfasts to 5,300 additional students. (Press Release)

Breakfast is important for children.

25,191

That is how many Montanans have enrolled in HealthCare.gov (Obamacare) during open enrollment Nov 1 – Dec 9. (CMS.gov)

Obamacare is important to Montanans.

24,000

That’s how many Montana children are at risk of losing their healthcare coverage through CHIP. Montana has enough funding to continue to operate CHIP through January 2018. (Press Release)

It’s starting to look like Republicans don’t like kids – at least those who are already born…

20,715

That’s how many votes Democrat Doug Jones is beating Republican Roy Moore by in the Alabama Senate election. There were 22,811 write-in votes. (CNN)

300

A man spent about four hours at the La Quinta Inn and Suites in Billings unbolting a 300 pound ATM machine. He then pulled the ATM out the door. (KULR8.com)

I’m impressed.

15

A recent Monmouth University Poll asked if the election for U.S. Congress was held today, would you vote for the Republican or the Democratic candidate in your district. 36% said they would vote Republican and 51% said they would vote Democrat – a 15% difference.

The Trump Administration and the Republican-controlled Congress have accomplished so much this year, why would anyone want change – just let the circular firing squad continue to work!

9

U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) has had 9 of his bipartisan bills signed into law by the President this year. (Source)

Very impressive (and I don’t impress easily).

4

U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) was named one of the most effective members of the United States Senate for his work on behalf of Montana’s veterans, service members, students, outdoorsmen, and women. The University of Virginia’s and Vanderbilt University’s non-partisan Center for Effective Lawmaking ranked Tester as the 4th most effective Senator in the minority party for the 114th Congress. (Press Release)

4

CBS News reports that after waiving fees 16 days in 2016 and 10 days in 2017, the National Park Service announced Tuesday that it will have four no-cost days next year. They will be Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 15), the first day of National Park Week (April 21), National Public Lands Day (Sept. 22) and Veterans Day (Nov. 11.)

Tough times for the National Park Service – maybe if they cut down on travel they could save some money…

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