by Brenton Craggs
I know what you’re thinking: the title of this article creates images of Hannah-Barbara cartoons from the days of old. While I grew up on those classic toons – and someday will raise my children on them as well – the sad state of American politics is that our government already is a looney bin. It’s ironic, then, that a man named Looney would show up to bring some sanity back to Montana politics.
As rugged as the Mountains in Western Montana, John Looney Sr. epitomizes the outdoorsman look one would expect a politician from this state to have. While looks in classic looney toons were frequently deceiving, John is the real deal. After serving his country in the military and in law enforcement, John took on the difficult but essential role of ensuring those who stand accused of committing crimes receive all the rights owed to them by the founding documents of our nation. Taking on this role after serving both as a military police officer and as a member of the Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office afforded him both an intricate understanding of the complex systems of justice in our country and a compassion for those accused of running afoul of it. This understanding, as well as his drive to succeed, resulted in him taking over a bail bonds business and, in six short years, making a name for his services which is nationally renowned.
It would seem ironic that such a man, who has so much respect for the rule of law and ensuring the rights of accused are respected, would become the target of said system just as he’s running for office, yet that is exactly what has occurred these last few months. Despite this, John stood strong in his convictions, in the face of insurmountable odds, and took his fight against judicial activism all the way to the federal courts which resulted in a successful injunction in his favor along with national recognition – and condemnation – of the target that was placed on his back. It is in the context of a contentious election cycle that John has shown he is truly the warrior Montana needs in House District 82 who will work to reform our judicial and bonds systems.
John is more than just a warrior though. Much like many of our treasured veterans and law enforcement, John is a family man who works hard to provide a home-schooling education for his children while regularly giving back to his community. It has been my personal experience with John that he has a “looney” sense of humor, a massive heart, incredible integrity, and yes even some fantastic cooking prowess. This massive heart that is shown through his actions on a daily basis, combined with that warrior spirit and drive to create necessary change, makes him the best candidate for Montana’s House District 82.
It's time to bring some common sense to the looney bin that is government and vote in John Looney Sr. as representative for House District 82.
