Democrat Bessette grew up in House District 24 and is now a candidate
Barbara Bessette is a Democrat running for House District 24
Democrat Bessette grew up in House District 24 and is now a candidate Barbara Bessette is a Democrat running for House District 24 Check out this story on greatfallstribune.com: https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/2018/11/03/democrat-bessette-grew-up-house-district-24-and-now-candidate/1664685002/
For the Tribune Published 3:05 p.m. MT Nov. 3, 2018
Barbara Bessette(Photo: Courtesy photo)
Barbara Bessette
Candidate for: House District 24, running on the Democrat ticket.
Occupation: Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist at Gateway Prevention
Education: Attended Montana State University - Billings
What is your plan for health care? Would you extend the HELP Medicaid expansion act?
My background and passion lies in preventative care. Investing in preventative healthcare — which includes both care and substance prevention directly results in healthier Montanans and lower costs of health insurance. I am a staunch supporter of the HELP Medicaid Expansion Act; I believe all people should have access to healthcare - regardless of socioeconomic status. As a Native woman, I have seen many members of the Native community without affordable and accessible healthcare. This needs to change and is one of the reasons which motivated me to run for office in the first place.
Do you support allowing religious schools to participate in a state tax credit program for private schools that allows up to $150 in tax credits for donations made to scholarship programs?
I am a product of public education and a strong supporter of our public schools. There are many children who attend public school in my district, as well as many current and former educators. We need to focus on funding public schools at the state level — not incentivize families to opt out of the public education system with tax credits on private schools.
Why are you the best candidate?
I am connected to my district — not only do I live there currently, but my Aunt and Uncle also live in HD24 who are like my second parents. I grew up playing in the streets of HD 24. My work as a Prevention Specialist is deeply community-based; I have spent my entire career working to create a healthier population of young people in Great Falls. Additionally, there has never been a Native American to serve the legislature in District 24 despite the significant Native population in my district. I want to serve all constituents within my district and make sure they are appropriately represented in the legislature.
Read or Share this story: https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/2018/11/03/democrat-bessette-grew-up-house-district-24-and-now-candidate/1664685002/