Letters to the editor: Election 2008, Idaho Legislature

DISTRICT 10, HOUSE SEAT A

Warwick can work across party lines to find solutions

Let's face it: we're in some tough times. And in tough times, squabble between parties is often reduced to attempts to lay blame on the other. But it was Democrats and Republicans alike that got us into this downward spiral. It will take cooperation from both parties to reverse the trend.

Learning to coexist for the good of this nation will not be easy. It will take candidates that care not about the interests of their party but the interests of the people they should proudly serve.

Mike Warwick knows this. It is what has driven him to dedicate nearly every Saturday since May to speaking face to face with District 10 voters. He has gained firsthand experience with the issues that concern us from his 18 years as a schoolteacher and his 52 years as a Idaho resident. As someone that has had the privilege of speaking with Mr. Warwick, I can honestly say that he has the ability to look beyond party lines to find solutions that work for us, not the other way around. This November, elect someone who knows what we need. Elect Mike Warwick for District 10 representative.

JESSIE GIGUIERE, Middleton

DISTRICT 12, HOUSE SEAT A

Mabbutt will lead with integrity and fairness

I have known Richard Mabbutt for over 20 years. Richard has worked closely with the Hispanic community and with those in need of equality in all areas of life. He is a compelling speaker and teacher. He is known for his work at Boise State University in the political science department and the Boise Future Foundation.

Richard Mabbutt is a man of foresight and vision for the state of Idaho. He brings honesty and fairness to every challenge and opportunity to better the lives of people. He exemplifies statesmanship, leadership and integrity and is an impressive mediator and negotiator. Richard deeply cares for people and their particular issues in this region. He brings his considerable education resources and political knowledge and will represent the people so that all voices are heard fairly and equally in the Legislature.

I believe Richard Mabbutt is the kind of representative this state needs in these times, and he will serve Idaho well. I urge you to vote for Richard Mabbutt to make Idaho strong.

REV. WILLIAM BROWN, Boise

Mabbutt will work to create strong communities

I'm supporting Richard Mabbutt for House Seat A. Richard believes in access to affordable health care, strong public schools and sustainable land use. Richard is committed to increasing the vitality of our community and creating a strong economy.

His opponent has been in office for 24 years, and I believe it is time for a change. Richard offers fresh ideas and a commitment to work with everyone in order to improve our economy and of quality of life.

Richard has the experience to achieve his goals in the House. He has served as the executive director of the Intermountain Fair Housing Council and the Boise Future Foundation, and he was the co-founder of Idaho Peaceful Settlements.

Richard truly cares about our area and will work hard to uphold his promises. On Nov. 4, I encourage you to join me in voting for Richard Mabbutt.

JESI ECKEL, Nampa

DISTRICT 13, HOUSE SEAT B

Yankey will build consensus on tough issues in House

As someone who used to work for Byron Yankey, I know he will be a driving force in the state Legislature. Byron interacts with people in a way that encourages collaboration. By valuing the opinions of all, he is able to build consensus on tough issues. Byron will be a passionate voice for the people of District 13.

There is nothing "vague" about Byron's vision for transportation and education in Idaho. What is unclear is why anyone should vote for his opponent, who couldn't even be bothered to return the Statesman's candidate questionnaire.

MARIANNA ROSS, Boise

Statesman got it wrong; Yankey has specific plans

I was disappointed in the Statesman's endorsement choice for District 13. The paper described as vague Mr. Yankey's answers in their candidate interview, but technical difficulties on the Statesman's Web site prevent readers from hearing Mr. Kren's entire interview, making a side-by-side comparison difficult. Mr. Yankey did give comprehensive answers to the Voter Guide questions, while Mr. Kren did not answer them.

If the paper's staff had done a little research and googled Mr. Yankey, they would have discovered he is a homegrown farm boy who has a three-decade career of public service in Idaho. He has won numerous awards for his tireless work as an elementary school principal, including being selected as a 2004 National Distinguished Principal, and he has served on numerous state committees in the service of his community.

Mr. Yankey is known for his fearless commitment, his creative problem-solving skills, and his ability to work cooperatively with diverse groups - beneficial qualities in any political climate. Check out his Web site for specific, targeted solutions to the state's problems by category - www.byronyankey.com. You will find him anything but vague.

DENISE SHUMWAY, Meridian

DISTRICT 14, HOUSE SEAT A

Waddell will support laws to help manage growth

I'm supporting Michelle Waddell because she would be a better representative for me and others in District 14 than the incumbent. Michelle wants to pass legislation that places the burden of new infrastructure costs on new developments, rather than on property taxpayers. She is not in favor of an unnecessary constitutional amendment that would restrict the ability of cities and counties to invest in needed local projects like public transportation. She is against letting Idaho become a dumping ground for contaminated radioactive waste from Kuwait.

Michelle intends to represent the interests of the people of District 14, a growing suburban area, unlike her opponent, who seems not to care about our traffic problems. Michelle is a moderate who is willing to compromise to make progress.

ELIZABETH ROBERTS, Eagle

DISTRICT 15, HOUSE SEAT B

Funk will listen to voters and work across the aisle

Idaho's Legislature needs more moderates like Greg Funk.

If I lived in District 15, I would vote for Greg Funk this year. He is a Marine Corps veteran, a Boise State grad and, like the rest of us, he feels the ups and downs of the economy too close for comfort. He perseveres with an optimism I can't help but admire.

Greg Funk is a political moderate who believes collaboration is a key to serving the people of Idaho well. He will dedicate his efforts to reaching out to really listen to voters' concerns and working across the aisle to get things done. He cares about the future of Idaho, and in times like these, we desperately need someone who can get the job done. Greg Funk is that man.

STEPHANIE BRAUN, Meridian

Funk will bring energy, intelligence, leadership

I met Greg Funk at a gathering during the summer. He said he had very little money but would be knocking on my door. I have lived in District 15 for many years and I have never met the long-serving representative. I don't know of anything the incumbent has done for us in the 16 years he has served in the Statehouse.

I have been very impressed with Greg Funk. He is young, energetic, intelligent and willing to knock on your door and shake your hand and talk with you. We need new leadership! We are underserved in District 15!

GERALDINE HALL, Boise

DISTRICT 16, HOUSE SEAT A

We need Joan Cloonan's expertise and experience

I am certain that, had the Statesman understood the quality of talent, character and abilities of Joan Cloonan, she would have been their choice for District 16 Seat A. She will be the district's gift to the state.

She is an expert on energy, environmental and business issues and relationships. She was vice-president of Environment and Regulatory Affairs for the J.R. Simplot Co.; serves as chairwoman of the Idaho Board of Environment Quality; served on the Boise Public Works Commission for 15 years; helped develop the Boise WaterShed Environmental Education Center; and provided artwork for our new state-of-the-art water treatment plant.

In addition, she understands health care issues in Idaho, having provided several years of in-home care for elderly parents.

Through her 25 years of public and private service, Joan has perfected the listening and facilitation skills required to work simultaneously with legislators, regulatory agencies, environmental groups and constituents.

Her experience is backed up by a Ph.D. in chemistry from Cornell and a law degree from Florida State.

Fellow District 16 residents, elect Joan Cloonan for us and for Idaho!

DAVID SHURTLEFF, Boise

Burgoyne will improve health care in Idaho

Grant Burgoyne is running for the House seat being vacated by retiring Rep. Margaret Henbest. Like Margaret, Grant is committed to affordable, quality health care, which is really important to all of us. Personally, I have faced many hardships because I need quality, affordable health insurance. He will work to reform health insurance, promote programs, providing low-cost drugs, build more community health clinics for those without adequate insurance, expand SCHIP for children without adequate insurance and support sensible, cost-effective programs to train and attract doctors and nurses.

Grant knows that health care is increasingly unaffordable and that we can, and must, limit costs and improve accessibility without reducing quality. Let's even the playing field by demanding health care for all, especially our children. Please vote for Grant to improve health care in Idaho.

DREW WESTON, Boise

Cloonan understands needs for energy, environment

What's this? An environmental expert running on the Republican ticket? Someone who understands our need to develop alternative energy sources and knows what it takes to meet those needs? Pinch me. I must be dreaming. But that's what Joan Cloonan offers. She does more than give lip service to air quality; she knows what it takes to improve it in the Treasure Valley.

Joan has spent much of her lifetime working for sensible environmental policies, and now she wants to take her skills to the Idaho House. For the last eight years, Joan has served on the Idaho Board of Environmental Quality and has chaired that board for the last two years. In that role, she has successfully worked with everyone from the Idaho Conservation League to the Idaho Cattle Association in the interest of developing sound policies.

This is the kind of person we need in the Legislature. Her knowledge of environmental issues also would make her an asset to the entire state of Idaho. We need her. That's why I encourage the people of District 16 to vote for her.

CHINA GUM, Meridian

DISTRICT 16, HOUSE SEAT B

Higgins will skip partisan rhetoric and bring results

I was stunned and dismayed by the Idaho Statesman editorial board's failure to endorse a candidate in the House Seat B race. In ignoring the best candidate, ostensibly as a result of her change in party affiliation, they defy their own history of praise for non-partisans like myself as well as their prior echoing of the electorate's increasing demand for effective, relevant and fair policy over partisan rhetoric.

Rather than focusing on Elfreda's thorough grasp of the issues confronting District 16 voters and her commitment to public service as a Garden City councilwoman, they chose to focus on her party affiliation. This is a disservice to voters.

Elfreda shares my concerns about representing the best interests of our constituents on the issues. We've both practiced "people politics," working across party lines to achieve that goal. I may have retired from the Legislature, but I have not retired from advocacy. I can think of no better way to ensure the continuity of strong representation than to elect Elfreda Higgins. I am proud to offer her my personal, professional and financial support, and I hope the voters of District 16 will join me.

REP. MARGARET HENBEST, Boise

Hodge will be Idaho taxpayers' best friend

District 16 has a great opportunity to elect Elizabeth Allan Hodge to the Idaho House on Nov. 4. I previously served with her in the Legislature and watched with respect and pride as she maintained a steadfast and principled adherence to the Constitution, individual rights and fiscal responsibility. In these chaotic times, with people all over Idaho trying to make ends meet, taxpayers do not need increased government and another tax hike. Elizabeth will be the taxpayers' best friend, and she keeps her word.

By contrast, Elizabeth's opponent Elfreda Higgins has flip-flopped on both her party affiliation and on whom she will support. As Kevin Richert of the Idaho Statesman opined in his recent editorial column: Higgins will "have to work with Republicans who would be rightfully suspicious about her motives and politics." Richert "was struck by Higgins' naivete" and said that she "has made a clumsy foray into party politics." Tough words from the hard-hitting Richert.

Elizabeth Allan Hodge will be warmly welcomed again in the Idaho House of Representatives. I urge your vote for this diligent, honest and respected champion of your freedoms and property rights.

RACHEL S. GILBERT, Boise

Higgins knows how to get results from government

I have the pleasure of working with Elfreda Higgins on the City Council of Garden City. I have seen firsthand why she will make a strong, effective state representative. Elfreda knows how to get the most out of government with the least amount of tax dollars. She doesn't just talk about problems but uses her calm persistence to make sure action is taken to solve them. You can trust that if she says she will do something, she will. What most impresses me about Elfreda is her ability to build consensus among opposing viewpoints and leave all participants with a win. I recommend you vote for Elfreda Higgins on Nov. 4.

MIKE MOSER, Garden City

Hodge respects other views, stands firm on principles

As a Realtor/broker I have had the opportunity to work with Elizabeth Allan Hodge. I served on the Board of Realtors here in Ada County with her for several years. Elizabeth always kept the membership in mind whenever she voted on an issue. She contacted the membership and asked people to come to meetings, get involved and let their voices be heard. She encouraged others to get involved. Whether you agreed with her or disagreed, you knew where she stood. She was always respectful of opposite opinions, but when it came to principles she stood strong.

I'm reminded of a Thomas Jefferson quote that reads: "In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." That describes Elizabeth Allan Hodge. Those of us living in District 16 can depend on her to follow her motto of "principles over politics."

DAN HERNANDEZ, Boise

Higgins is right choice on issues that help families

After listening to and studying the platforms of all the candidates in District 16, I have concluded that Elfreda Higgins has a unique combination of talent, vision and understanding of government policy and operations to address the major issues in Idaho.

How a leader addresses issues facing children is a good indicator of his or her qualifications and suitability as a leader. Elfreda is very interested in the protection of family values and the safety of our children. She supports licensing all child-care centers for the safety of our children and the peace of mind of their parents. She worked with me to research and pass legislation to restrict convicted child sex offenders from living in certain areas of Garden City. Elfreda does in-depth study on issues before she decides how she will vote to represent all Idahoans.

I urge everyone in District 16 to seriously consider the Higgins candidacy and conclude, as I have, that she is the right leader for the times and issues our district and state face today.

MARLENE HICKLIN, Boise

Hodge is reliable and will work hard for citizens

I met Elizabeth Allan Hodge prior to her being elected to the Idaho Statehouse. She was working for Phil Batt in his race for governor in 1982. She served from 1984-1990 and was re-elected by a higher margin each time she ran. People knew they could rely on her to keep her word and that she was working hard for them.

When she imposed a term limit on herself, there were people who asked her to reconsider, but her belief in a citizen's legislature caused her to leave public office after six great years during which Idaho went from operating with shortfalls, to having a surplus.

Liz always supported the voters in her district. She worked hard to protect their rights and preserve their income. I hope you will join me in casting a vote for Elizabeth Allan Hodge. She will honor her commitment to those of us in District 16.

JIM HARRIS, Boise

Hodge will find principled solutions for Idaho

If you are looking for a candidate who will put principle over politics, defend your natural rights, let you know what is going on in the Legislature and listen to your concerns, look no further. Elizabeth Allan Hodge will communicate with you, and do her best to make sure that principle is put before politics in the Legislature.

She has served three terms in the Idaho Legislature, giving her the experience needed to be effective in working with all legislators, Republican and Democrat, and to find principled solutions that are good for the people of Idaho and consistent with our state and national constitutions. Elizabeth Allan Hodge is the best choice for the District 16, House Seat B.

PATRICK DOUGHERTY, Boise

Hodge will keep people informed about the issues

I have known Elizabeth Allan Hodge since she came to work with our company nearly 20 years ago. She served on the Realtors Board of Directors for 10 years and did a great job informing people on issues. She worked hard to protect people's private property rights, and in 2003 the Realtors gave her the Distinguished Service Award.

To my knowledge, she is the only candidate who has actually signed a pledge to honor the oath of office to uphold the Constitution and has also said that she will do a radio program, like she did in 1990, to keep people informed on activities in the Legislature. If you want to know more about her, check out her Web site at www.lizforidaho.com. Elizabeth Allan Hodge will represent the people in District 16 well.

EJAY HARRIS, Boise

DISTRICT 17, HOUSE SEAT B

Loughrey understands the problems people are facing

Having lived in this neighborhood some 60-plus years, we can think of no one better qualified to represent us than our good neighbor Daniel Loughrey. He and his wife, Inge, made their home in Boise after a successful Naval career. Dan attended Boise State University, earned a degree in business and now runs a successful bookkeeping service. He knows the problems facing small-businesses owners.

He has served our neighborhood well as president of the ditch committee for several years. He serves on the Capitol Improvements Citizen Advisory Committee at ACHD and is an active member of the Hillcrest Neighborhood Association. He has shown true concern for neighbors by many acts of kindness. Daniel Loughrey is accountable, and we heartily endorse him. We urge you to give him your support.

ALLAN AND VIRGINIA CAFFERTY, JOHN AND FERN ANDERSON AND CHARLES AND LOIS PAYTON, Boise

DISTRICT 18, HOUSE SEAT A

Durst has earned our trust and deserves another term

I first met Branden Durst two years ago when he came to my house to shake my hand, answer my questions, and personally ask for my vote. I gave it to him and have never regretted it. Unlike any other representative I have had in my 15 years in the district, Rep. Durst keeps in touch with his constituency through a weekly newsletter and an up-to-date Web site throughout the legislative session. We know what he is doing on our behalf, and he's regularly available to listen to our concerns through regular public forums.

Rep. Durst cares deeply about the welfare of all Idahoans, and especially about the education of our children from their earliest years through their graduate school education. His views on transportation and managed growth are responsible and well-conceived. I have not met his opponent, nor do I see evidence that her campaign has been past the major roads into my neighborhood. Branden Durst has done an excellent job for his constituents. He has earned our trust and respect, and deserves to be re-elected.

BARBARA JIBBEN, Boise

Durst considers the issues, not party politics

I've been a Southeast Boise resident for seven years and recently learned about an amazing person in politics. His understanding of political issues is far beyond his years. Many recognize the name Branden Durst or are familiar with his story. I believe he should be supported and commended for the unique stance he takes. Although registered as an independent, I am a Christian and generally vote for and side with the Republican party. My faith directs the decisions I make as a voter but doesn't dictate that I vote for the conservative party. It certainly does mandate that I respect the opinions of others.

Rep. Durst is a moderate Democrat and a political figure standing alone at times in the middle of two parties that are often at odds with each other. He doesn't necessarily side with his party because it is expected. He takes the time to examine pertinent issues with a goal of doing the right thing for his district. His strong faith guides him, along with a dedication to research and knowledge. I believe he should be commended for taking a stance in the middle and making decisions based on the issues. Please vote to re-elect Branden Durst.

MATT PAYN, Boise

Durst is right choice for laborers and parents

I am writing to pledge my full support for the re-election of Rep. Branden Durst. As a member of an AFL-CIO union, I closely follow labor-friendly candidates. Branden Durst is labor-friendly. He has the backing of the AFL-CIO, myself and fellow union members.

Durst also supports early childhood education. As the mother of two small children, I can attest to the importance of teaching our children early. Kindergarten requirements have become so stringent that it is of utmost importance that Idaho children receive a strong preschool background.

If you are a laborer or a parent, Branden Durst is your candidate. Please support him along with myself and other working families on Nov. 4.

HOLLY BLANKENSHIP IMAMOVIC, Boise

DISTRICT 18, HOUSE SEAT B

Young offers expertisein education, business

Voters in District 18 have a unique opportunity to elect a leader for the Idaho House. Becky Young is a dedicated parent volunteer, serving as president for various PTOs and on committees for the Boise School District. She has a unique understanding of the issues facing education in Idaho today.

Becky Young has a strong business background as well, having spent 25 years in corporate finance. She has received endorsements from a broad spectrum of interests. More complete information can be seen on her Web site: young4idaho.com

I urge you to vote for Becky Young in District 18. She will be a dynamic voice for you.

TERRY FRANKS-SMITH, Boise

King will bring reasonable solutions to difficult issues

As a member of AAUW Idaho and an advocate for public schools and early childhood education, I strongly urge the voters of District 18 to support Rep. Phylis King. King has been in touch with her constituents; her integrity is reflected in her record; her knowledge of the issues is respected and valued by her colleagues.

King supports criminal background checks for day-care workers to keep our kids safe, early childhood education and adequate funding for K-12 schools, emphasizing that prevention is the most cost-effective policy solution. A child that attends pre-K is more likely to graduate from high school, go on to college and less likely to end up in prison. Idaho spends an annual average of $6,081 per pupil compared with $21,763 per prisoner; money invested now will save on social services and prison costs later in that child's life.

King's opponent supports extreme ideas like diverting public school funds to private schools and teaching creationism in public schools (Gem State Voter Guide). Worse yet, she opposes public funding of early childhood education programs and criminal background checks for day-care workers. Your vote for Phylis King is a vote for reasonable solutions to difficult issues.

KATHY HALEY, Boise

Young will find solutions for traffic, schools, taxes

As a neighbor and friend, I have known Becky Young for many years as a leader and an advocate for our schools and as a listener to all. I know that she is capable of bringing people together, making things better and always doing what is right.

Becky Young is a trustworthy individual, and what you see is truly what you get. There is not a hidden agenda behind this woman's desire to help represent Boise in the House. I believe she is prepared to solve our problems with education, transportation, and specifically tax relief. As a business woman, she has the skill set to help our businesses succeed.

We do have choices on Election Day. First and foremost we have the choice to vote or sit at home and let someone else decide. When you make the right decision to vote, make the right choice to vote for Becky Young.

GAIL HARTNETT, Boise

DISTRICT 18, SENATE

Sorensen has vision, experience and ability

I am supporting Dean Sorensen, who has the vision, experience and proven ability to get things done for District 18 and for the state of Idaho. He is committed to push for an immediate reduction in property taxes and put the brakes on state government growth.

Dean will work to restore good paying jobs in our own state, which will help build a stronger economy in Idaho. As a parent and homeowner, taxes are a constant worry and burden. I know Dean will work to reduce taxes and help restore fair taxation for families and small business.

STANLEY W. MOSS, M.D., Eagle

Kelly will fight for ethics, efficiency in Legislature

District 18 has one of the brightest politicians in a dull state Legislature. Kate Kelly shines and would like to bring some light to the Statehouse in the form of ethics and lobby reform. Unfortunately, each time she brings up the issues, the majority voice prevails and business as usual continues. If, however, we are ever to see a truly open, ethical Legislature, we will need more voices like Kate Kelly.

If we ever want Idaho to stop wasting money on inefficient state building standards or to develop markets for Idaho-based building materials through green building standards, we need more voices like Kate Kelly.

If you are concerned at all about the quality of water in the Boise River and the threat to it posed by Canadian mining interests, please vote for Kate and allow her to represent honest, intelligent thinking people and forward looking policies.

SCOTT LARSON, Boise

Sorensen will get results on economy, education

When I think of Dean Sorensen, three attributes come to mind: trustworthiness, intelligence and integrity.

I have been friends with Dean and his wife, Sheila, for over 20 years. They are two of the finest people I know. Both have a lifelong commitment to serving the state of Idaho.

I had the honor of working with Dean while we were both serving in the Idaho Legislature. I trust his character and am confident that he will make the right choices for the people of Idaho. As a physician and surgeon, Dean knows the value of an education and understands the necessity of adequate funding for schools to educate our young people to compete in today's world.

Dean has the common sense and ability to understand everyday issues that affect Idahoans such as taxes, keeping jobs in Idaho and creating a stronger economy. His record while serving in the Legislature and his professional integrity as a physician are proof of his ability to analyze complicated issues and problems.

It's my pleasure to work with Dean and support him in his bid for Senate.

MARY HARTUNG, Boise

DISTRICT 19, HOUSE SEAT B

Cronin is passionate about improving quality of life

Brian Cronin is one of the most thoughtful, articulate, honest and intelligent individuals I have ever met. He is a passionate leader who is deeply devoted to improving the quality of life in Idaho through public service and civic engagement. Brian will bring balance, vision and leadership to the Idaho Legislature. His innovative ideas provide sensible solutions to the challenges facing our state today.

Brian Cronin is a progressive leader who will put the interests of Idaho over ideology. I encourage my fellow District 19 residents to vote for him. Learn more about Brian at www.votecronin.com.

TASHI B. DONDUP, Boise

McGowan is committed to North End neighborhood

I live in the North End and am a board member of the North End Neighborhood Association. Since Kevin McGowan was voted its president, I feel the association is run more efficiently than ever. Kevin is a fair and judicious leader of our group and he really cares about our neighborhood. McGowan should get a lot of the credit for taking a job that offers very few pats on the back. Among other things, Kevin made sure that the right people followed through so that the North End would be recognized in the recent Great American Places survey that made us all so proud. I am proud to be voting for him in the upcoming legislative election. We need to protect our way of life in Boise and McGowan has walked the walk.

RENAE WALTER, Boise

Cronin will help deliver results on urban issues

I was disappointed to see your endorsement of Kevin McGowan for District 19 House Seat B. The major argument seems to be that he should "have a chance to try" to make progress on urban issues with House Republicans. This is wishful thinking at best. By your own paper's reporting, it seems that Republican moderates have been frozen out on critical urban issues.

On the other hand, Brian Cronin is a candidate who has earned the respect of his party and those who know him and do business with him. As a small-business owner, he will be attuned to the financial and regulatory hurdles facing business owners here in Idaho. His education background gives him a leg up as we continue to try to improve our schools in an increasingly difficult budget environment. I know Brian to be ethical, very hardworking, and committed to public service. The citizens of District 19, and the citizens of Idaho, would be well served with Brian Cronin in the House.

TERESA YRAGUI, Eagle