Hess: I did not approve negative ads

Editor,

I decided before I ran for public office that I would not participate in negative campaigning. And to this principle I have remained true. The honest discussion of ideas and solutions is a healthy part of the process. 

In Montana it is legal for other entities to send mailers during an election cycle. It is against the law for candidates to coordinate or even know about these mailers.

In order to know who sent a specific mailer you have to read the fine print where it will read “Paid for by … .” This statement is required by law.

If a mailer does not say “Paid for by Hess for House”  then I did not approve or even know about the message. I would never approve a message with negative statements about another candidate. 

I believe in the honest discussion of ideas and solutions, and I look forward to continuing the discussion.

State Rep. Stephanie Hess, R-Havre