Editor:

     I am writing this letter in support of Franke Wilmer who is running for the open seat in the U.S. Congress. I worked extensively with Franke as the speaker pro tempore during the 2008 Legislature, and her service is commendable.

    Wilmer's tireless work on behalf of students, working families and all Montanans is excellent. She always showed up to session ready to buckle down and get the business of the day. This is someone who will do the same for us in Washington, D.C.

     In a crowded primary field for this seat, I plan on voting for Wilmer because I know she has what it takes to win the general and go on and speak for me at the U.S. Capitol.

    Not since Jeannette Rankin has this congressional seat been served by a woman legislator, I believe it is time to return that seat to a woman who holds the values that I believe in. Franke knows what it's like to live without health insurance and helped spearhead the effort to raise funds for my broken arm during the legislative session — because insurance is not given to staff who work at the capitol during this time.

    I believe that Franke Wilmer will work to put people before partisan politics and compromise before gridlock. I believe that she will restore and protect the American dream and that's why she has my vote.

Jenn Phalen

Helena