Yes, it's freakin' Idaho. The Cook Report has upgraded this race from Lean Republican
toss up. I am pleased to state here, on the record, that I was completely wrong about our chances to take the governor's seat in Idaho. I've never been happier to be wrong.
This good news comes on the heels of a strong performance by Brady in last night's debate in Twin Falls. Twin is the hub of the Magic Valley, the state's largest agricultural area along the Snake River. Brady was the clear favorite in last night's debate, according to this report:
But a question about air quality regulations, an hour into the 90-minute debate on KTVB-TV, prompted the enthusiastic outburst from the audience. Otter responded first, saying he'd trust the Idaho Legislature even if it defied the Environmental Protection Agency's regulations.
"I believe that the state Legislature probably has a lot more wisdom on what happens in Idaho and should happen in Idaho than any bureaucrat in the EPA sitting on Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C.," Otter said. "My trust is with the Legislature, and I would work with them to maintain a standard whether or not it fit the federal government mold. I believe we can do what we want to in the state of Idaho."
Brady responded by citing a proposal by an out-of-state energy company to build a coal-fired power plant in the Magic Valley. "A California utility came here, said, 'We want to bring Wyoming coal into this valley, we want to burn it, we want to pollute your air, pollute your water, leave all of our ash behind, and ship the electricity out to the West Coast.' I opposed it," Brady said. "My opponent supported them, took their side, and took $6,000 from them."...
"I said no, Gov. (Jim) Risch later said no, but the Legislature said yes," Brady said. "Now, I do not believe we can be sure that the Legislature will make the right decision without a governor who is committed to keeping mercury out of our state."
The room erupted in applause.
Brady put in the legwork needed to get where he is today. While Otter assumed the attitude that he was going to be annointed governor because it's Idaho. This exchange just illustrates the fact that Otter is out of touch with Idaho.
On the Web:
Brady for Idaho
Brady for Idaho Video Contest (just for a little hokey Idaho fun)