After nearly two years of campaigning, Republican Lt. Governor Brad Little has won his promotion to Idaho’s top office.
The longtime conservative politician and rancher from Emmett opened his acceptance speech with a tribute to former Governor Phil Batt.
Little says 24 years ago, Batt dethroned Democrats from the executive branch after more than two decades in power.
“Idaho is still a very red state,” he said, as a jubilant crowd cheered in front of him at the Riverside Hotel in Boise.
In the spring, Little survived a brutal primary against Congressman Raul Labrador and Boise developer Tommy Ahlquist. He then faced a spirited challenge from former State Rep. Paulette Jordan, who’s progressive platform electrified Idaho Democrats.
Little says he plans to work with President Trump to regain control over local issues.
“Idaho has been fairly successful, but we have more work to do in taking back the authority that the federal government over the years has taken, whether it’s in the areas of education, transportation, healthcare, public lands management and all the areas of regulation.”
He also wants to focus on boosting early childhood literacy, building on Idaho’s growing economy and cutting taxes.
Little will now prepare his transition team for January’s baton handoff from his current boss, Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter.
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