Thanks to our veterans

Firstly, I want to take a moment to recognize our veterans. Many Montanans, including myself, have served in a branch of our military. I am proud to be a veteran and thankful to every single one of you who have kept our country safe through your sacrifice, combat duty, and dedication to protecting our country and our freedom.

Well, the 2022 election is over. I want to thank everyone for the great support in this past general election, with a special thanks to folks who allowed a campaign sign on their property. The wind did get away with a few of my signs, so if you see one, please let me know so I can retrieve it. I also want to give my opponent a thumbs up for running a straight up campaign. I have never felt a smear-type campaign is the way to garner votes. There was a flyer supposedly sent out on my behalf by the Montana GOP Central Committee that was in poor taste. I called them and told them I did not need their help if that was the way they felt my campaign should be advertised.

Other than that small hiccup, the past 11 months have been a whirlwind and I have truly enjoyed the many conversations, parades, events, and engagements that put me in touch with businesses, civic organizations and individuals of all ages, stages and economic status. I am struck by the kindness, conviction and community-mindedness in District 14. I remain humbled and appreciative that I can represent this region at the Legislature. Thank you for your continued support.

This coming week, the work already starts for the upcoming legislative session. We will receive our committee assignments and legislators will be chosen for potential chair positions. Also, voting will take place for leadership positions. This will give everyone an indication of the direction the legislature will take come Jan. 2, 2023. Knowing committee assignments and the Democrat and Republican representatives who will serve with me on those committees will help me line up and continue work on some bills. Between now and January, I’ll also hear from other legislators, state elected officials, and stakeholders calling and asking for feedback on proposed legislation.

Judy and I will be taking a few days of rest and relaxation between now and Thanksgiving to visit a couple of our children and grandkids. Finally, I want to thank all of our family for the encouragement and support. It is uplifting when a grandkid facetimes “Papa” in the morning to tell me Happy Veterans Day, Happy Birthday, happy whatever, or just to say good morning.

I was just informed that my state e-mail will be changed again. My old e-mail will be forwarded for a time, so I will get it either way. The business card I have been sharing has the old e-mail, but my new address will be at the end here. As always, be safe!

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State Sen. Russ Tempel, R-Chester, can be emailed at Russ.Tempel@legmt.gov .