Identity Politics: Americans, Montanans and Citizens of Carbon County
Preamble to the Constitution of the State of Montana
As we enter what is predicted to be a divisive election season, let’s all remember in the coming months that the people we have political differences with during campaign season are members of our community who love our country, state and county every bit as much as we do ourselves.
My focus with Montana Independent News is to provide factual reporting with supporting documentation so that, whatever your beliefs or affiliations, you can get the information you need to make decisions for yourself, your family and your community. In the coming campaign season, if there is a claim or statement that concerns you and you would like it fact checked, please let me know. I will do my best to provide the information with accompanying documentation that you need to make up your own mind.
To help us all start out on the same page, I have compiled the Constitution of the State of Montana as a source document in Montana Independent News archives. I find it easier to read and retain in document form. If you know what you are looking for in the Constitution, you may find the version on the State website in the MCAs more convenient.
The document is approximately 32 pages long and does not need to be read in one sitting. It’s conveniently broken down into 14 articles and was written in the 1970s, making it an easy read for the modern citizen.
As an example of why it is important to know what is in your state’s constitution, a recent conversation included the statement that Montana would function better if it had a 6% sales tax like some other states. Had the speaker been familiar with Montana’s Constitution, they would have known that even if Montana institutes a sales tax, it will be constitutionally limited to no more than 4%.
As Americans we are proud that we have a government of, by and for the people. As Americans, we cherish our constitutional rights. Every time you vote you are participating in governing your own life. Everytime you don’t vote, you are leaving those decisions up to others.
Know your Constitution. Know your rights. Vote to keep them.