Season's Greetings from Your Senator

It’s an honor to represent Montana in the U.S. Senate and work on your behalf to make our state and nation a better place to live and work. As we gather together during this time of year, I hope that you will join me in thanking the brave servicemen and women who are giving so much to defend our freedoms – for their service and sacrifice we are especially grateful.

I just wrapped up my 56 County Tour last week stopping in every Montana County during the 114th Congress. Throughout the tour I heard Montanan's concerns and ideas, I heard about the need to rein in regulations, to grow both domestic and overseas markets for Montana goods and products to benefit our ag producers, balance the budget, protect our public lands, expand made-in-Montana energy and uphold Montana values. It was great to see so many familiar faces along the way.

Cindy and I recently rang the bell for the Salvation Army – we cannot forget during the time of celebration that there are many Montanans that need help. Some need a warm meal, others need a place to sleep. We have been given much, and need to reach out to those who need a helping hand.

On Christmas Eve, I’ll also be joining Rabbi Bruk in Bozeman for a Hanukkah celebration to light the menorah on the first night of Hanukkah, and then join my family for a Christmas Eve candlelight service in my home church in Bozeman.

As we celebrate Christmas, I am reminded of the true spirit of giving that exists in households across our great state and am thankful for the work Montanans do everyday to build better communities. Montana is called the Treasure State for our abundant natural resources, but our true treasure is our people that foster a sense of family that makes Montana the best state.

And as we look toward the New Year, please continue to stay in touch and share your ideas, concerns and opinions so that I can best serve you in the U.S. Senate. On behalf of my family and staff, I wish you a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and best wishes to you and your family in the coming New Year.

Steve Daines is the junior United States Senator from Montana.