Constitutional Conservatism

     I am a constitutional conservative. I want to conserve the constitutional order for two reasons. (1) As a Montana state representative, I took an oath to “support, protect and defend” both the U.S. and Montana constitutions. I take this oath seriously. (2) The U.S. Constitution is largely responsible for the greatness of the American Republic and the freedom and happiness of its people and is an important part of what makes America exceptional. I oppose any constitutional amendment, bill, resolution, or other legislative action that adversely affects the fundamental principles of our constitutions. Among these principles are popular sovereignty, separation of powers, federalism, rule of law, limited government, judicial independence, and individual rights. This authentic constitutional conservatism informed my votes on several occasions in the 68th legislative session that I determined would trespass upon one or more of these fundamental principles. Despite the pressures of partisanship and factions, I stood up – and will do so again – to put the people first if party politics offers to undermine the public good.