Tester abusing taxpayers
Hey savvy news reader! Thanks for choosing local.
You are now reading
3 of 3 free articles.
Editor,
Recently, we received a colorful four-page campaign brochure from Sen. Jon Tester that was “franked mail,” that is, sent at taxpayer expense. The law regarding the franked mail privilege of senators (39USC3210) requires that the mail be sent no less than 60 days prior to an election and not be used to solicit votes. While it isn’t clear when the brochure was mailed, as it is only labeled “Fall 2012,” it was received well within the 60-day requirement. Most of the brochure was devoted to itemizing the millions of federal dollars and other benefits provided to Indian Country, with, of course, Tester claiming credit. This appears to be a blatant attempt to buy Native American votes and an abuse of his free mail privilege. Perhaps Sen.Tester should use the money he has collected from Washington lobbyists rather than taxpayer funds for this kind of mail. We deserve a senator who will not use the federal treasury to promote his political ambition.
Philip Barney
Polson
