An online schedule might not be that interesting to many people. As with many of the workings of government, most folks might find it boring. But the important part is that people who want the information can get it easily.
Following the lead of Rep. Denny Rehberg and Sens. Jon Tester and Max Baucus, I began posting my own official schedule on the Web site of the secretary of state's office on Sept. 24. The Sunlight Foundation said it was the first time they know of that a state-level official has taken this step.
I didn't begin putting my schedule online because it's always perfect. Sometimes it shows 10 hours of work on a Sunday. But other days it simply shows a family vacation. Looking good is not the point. Giving the public information is the point.
Now, I'd like to take an opportunity to urge Montana's other state-level elected officials to follow suit.
All of my colleagues who are elected to statewide office rightly say upfront that their schedules are public documents, and will be made available to anyone who asks. That's an excellent demonstration of the spirit of openness that guides Montana's politics.
But I believe more can be done. After all, not everyone in Montana lives in Helena - it's not always easy to just drop by the governor's office and ask to see his schedule. That's the beauty of the Internet. It brings information to all corners of our state - and the world - as easily as people in the capital city can get it.
And so, to my colleagues, I encourage you to post your schedules online.
Gov. Brian Schweitzer, Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger, Attorney General Mike McGrath, Auditor John Morrison and Superintendent Linda McCulloch all share the same love of open public participation that all Montanans feel. Online schedules represent an opportunity to put that belief into practice.
The one thing all elected officials have in common is that they were put there by people who voted for them. As the secretary of state - Montana's election official - I have always believed very strongly not just in voting, but in informed voting. Informed voting means taking the time to study the issues, and learn about the people who are seeking public office. Online schedules are an excellent opportunity for voters to stay informed, giving them more information about the people they may vote to re-elect.
For voting and for ordinary good citizenship, more information is a good thing. I hope all Montana's state elected officials will join me in providing it.
Brad Johnson is Montana's secretary of state.
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