Whopper of the Day - July 22nd:

the truth about Schweitzer's stance on water

Brian Schweitzer has touted the importance of agriculture and his credentials as a farmer since his first campaign for Governor in 2004, even touting the importance of irrigation to those who make their living off the land. However, as Governor, Schweitzer traveled to Washington, D.C. to support the Clean Water Restoration Act, which sought to regulate all waters in Montana and would have put the water that producers depend on in the hands of bureaucrats in Washington, DC.

Schweitzer touts his agriculture credentials and the importance of irrigation for Montana farmers and ranchers

“A Montana farmer and rancher…”

“Brian has been active in developing and implementing national farm policy, and ensuring that the voice of local Montanans is heard.”

(“Meet Brian” Schweitzer Website, Accessed 7-22-08, http://www.brianschweitzer.com/meetbrian)

“If you’re going to double agriculture output, you have to grow specialty crops. Most of these require irrigation,” said Schweitzer.

(“Schweitzer will seek Governor’s Position” Sidney Herald, 4/6/03)

Schweitzer testifies in support of the Clean Water Restoration Act

“Passage of the Clean Water Authority Restoration Act is the best way to ensure that all of the water resources in Montana remain fully protected.”

“This bill reaffirms that the Act is intended to cover all waters of the United States.”
(Schweitzer Testimony, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, 7-17-2007)

Montana agriculture advocates oppose the Clean Water Restoration Act

“That's why I'm joining with the Montana Stockgrowers Association, Citizens for Balanced Use, Montana Contractors Association, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, Montanans for Multiple Use, Treasure State Alliance, Montana Wood Products Association, Montana Agricultural Business Association, Montana Grain Growers Association, United Property Owners of Montana and Families for Outdoor Recreation in saying to those of you who support the effort to federalize Montana’s water: ‘no, nope, no way, hell no’.”

(Letter from Congressman Denny Rehberg to Governor Schweitzer, May 21, 2008)

Brian Schweitzer … You Just Can’t Trust Him