LTE: CI-132 protects your right to a fair day in court

I am writing to urge my fellow Montanans to vote YES on Constitutional Initiative 132 (CI-132) to protect a fundamental right: the right to a fair day in court.

Our judicial system exists for everyday citizens, not political parties. When an average Montanan steps into a courtroom—whether for a property dispute, a family matter, or a criminal case—they need a neutral referee, not a politician in a robe.

A partisan judiciary completely destroys public trust. If judges run with political party labels, citizens are left wondering if a ruling was based on the law or a partisan platform. Nonpartisan judges ensure that every citizen is treated equally, regardless of their personal politics or who they voted for. We need judges whose only allegiance is to the Montana Constitution and the rule of law, completely free from the current polarization that has distracted our legislative and executive branches.

With partisan politicians actively trying to inject party politics into our courts, we must act. Voting YES on CI-132 permanently guarantees that Montana’s judicial elections remain nonpartisan, ensuring our courts remain a fair, independent, and trusted shield for every citizen.

Walt Sales

Belgrade

Originally published in the Belgrade News on 9/23/26