The Montana constitution provides that "[A]ll government . . . is instituted solely for the good of the whole." It also provides that "[A]ll persons . . . have certain . . . rights. They include . . . the rights of pursuing life's basic necessities . . . In enjoying these rights, all persons recognize corresponding responsibilities."

If I take an oath to support, protect and defend the constitution of Montana, I will be responsible for complying with this limitation on government. I am prohibited from supporting legislation that is solely for the good of older Montanans (not for the whole). I cannot disregard that our constitution places the responsibility for pursuing life's basic necessities on the individual. It doesn't matter how compassionate the cause -- the force of government must not be used to benefit older Montanans at the expense of the whole (all tax payers). Government cannot take a role in providing long term care.