Letters to the editor Sept. 28

Tranel not qualified

The Constitution limits the federal government's powers and specifies certain fundamental rights that no government can violate. These rights include the right to freedom of speech, the right to keep and bear arms, and the right not to be "deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law." And, "the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty is a fundamental element of due process."

It's the prosecution's job to prove that:

• the crime happened;

• the accused person is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

It doesn't require to be a lawyer to understand fundamental principles of our constitutional republic, but as a lawyer, Monica Tranel must know this better than others. She should be among the first to condemn Biden for labeling half of the country, including 54% of Montanans, as "threat to American democracy."

As a candidate to the Congress, Monica Tranel is expected to honor the oath of office and protect the Constitution. She is expected to represent all Montanans, not only those who prove their loyalty to the Democratic party and its leadership.

Her refusal to condemn Biden's rhetoric and campaign messages prove she is not qualified for the job she wants.

— Anna Shchemelinin, Bozeman

Monica is listening

Monica Tranel is working for your vote to represent our western district in the U.S. House of Representatives. She is traveling the district meeting with Montanans in small towns, cities, rural communities, city councils, county commissions, nonprofits.

Why is this important? Monica is listening, listening to you and your neighbors. And she wants to know the issues important to you. As a member of the US House, she will speak your interests in a government that represents and works for you. Why is this important? Montana plays an important role in our nation’s economy, prosperity, and security. Agriculture, education, environmental resources, tourism, and outdoor recreation are some of many examples. Raised on a Montana ranch with her nine brothers and sisters, educated in a career where she serves Montanans on all levels, and grounded in a work ethic specific to our state are a few of her outstanding qualities. Monica is a fierce and authentic voice for Montana. She has my vote.

— Patti Steinmuller, Bozeman