Energy policies

In an interview with the Missoulian last week, State Representative Pat Ingraham let slip that she wants us to pay higher energy bills.  She stated that she supports further deregulation of energy companies.  The lessons of the past are clearly lost on Mrs. Ingraham — when the state legislature deregulated energy in the late 1990s, Montana went from having some of the cheapest energy to having some of the most expensive.  Further deregulation of these big companies will only result in higher prices. 

To take this stance, in these troubled economic times, is deplorable and is evidence that Mrs. Ingraham either doesn’t care about the people she represents or doesn’t understand the ramifications of this position.  A two-term incumbent and member of the Republican establishment should know better. 

If you want further proof of Mrs. Ingraham’s true allegiance, look no further than her campaign war chest.  She has been heavily funded by the big oil, gas and power companies of eastern Montana — a fitting coincidence to her positioning on this issue. 

Yes, we all know Mrs. Ingraham is a nice person, but she clearly doesn’t have our best interests in mind.  Instead, I urge you to vote for Jackie Burgess this fall.  As our Representative Jackie will work to hold Big Utilities accountable and keep our energy costs under control.