Time to overcome partisan bickering

Two months ago, on Dec. 10, I made a public announcement of my intention to run for the Montana State Senate in Senate District 2. This is to confirm that on Feb. 1, I officially filed for the office with the Secretary of State.

I am looking forward to running an open, honest, clean campaign, and listening carefully to the good ideas and genuine concerns of the citizens of Senate District 2.

I am an independent-minded Democrat who believes it is time to overcome the partisan bickering that slows progress for all Montanans. It is possible to stand firm in your principles while reaching out to those who might not always agree with you.

I believe Republicans, Democrats and Independents all want what is best for the majority of Montanans, and it is time we put party politics aside to accomplish what Montanans want and need.

I have been a permanent resident of Coram for 23 years, owned property here for 30 years, and since 1985 have been working all over the Flathead Valley to make our community stronger.

I am beginning my fourth year as executive director of the Northwest Montana Historical Society and the Museum at Central School in Kalispell. I am a 22-year veteran firefighter with the Coram-West Glacier Volunteer Fire Department.

I've worked 13 years as a social worker with Lamplighter House and the Western Montana Mental Health Center in Kalispell, serving adults with serious mental illness. I've worked five years as a guest teacher, in all grades K-12 and all subjects, in the Columbia Falls School District and seven years as the debate coach at Whitefish High School.

I've served five years on the Flathead County Library Foundation Board of Directors, the last three years as President of the Board.

I have a Master of Arts degree from UCLA and a Bachelor of Science from California State Polytechnic University. I can go the distance, both figuratively and literally, having completed 31 marathons (26.2 miles each), one 31.2-mile 50 K, and one 50-mile run, covering more than 20,000 miles training. I've been racing since 1993.

I will represent you with enthusiasm and compassion. Together we can make Montana even better. I want to hear from you — I'm listening.

Gil Jordan of Coram is a candidate for Senate District 2.