Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
Politico article spotlights Little-Trump education nexus
This week, the national political news site highlighted the way Gov. Brad Little and other GOP governors are tailoring his education message to align with the White House.
Labrador names new solicitor general
Michael Zarian has been Attorney General Raúl Labrador’s deputy solicitor general since January 2024. Zarian has played a key role in Idaho’s 2025 private education tax credit law.
In Wyoming, campus politics sparks a push for deep budget cuts
It’s a familiar scenario: Republican legislators in a cash-rich Western state are looking to slash higher education funding. In this case, though, Idaho is not the battleground.
UPDATED: Hawkins to chair House Education, as Pickett joins GOP leadership
Rep. Dale Hawkins, R-Fernwood, served as House Education vice chairman in 2025, frequently aligning with hardline conservatives on the divided panel.
Tanner takes position as JFAC co-chair
The move comes as the Legislature’s budget committee is staring at shortfalls this year and next year.
Moyle offers JFAC chairman’s spot to a member of his leadership team
The House speaker offered a vacant Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee chair’s spot to Rep. Josh Tanner, R-Eagle, Idaho Public Television reported Wednesday. Tanner was noncommittal Wednesday evening.
Medical education plan heads to Little, Legislature
The document sets the table for an ongoing legislative debate over medical education — and how the state should spend millions of dollars to support Idaho students.
Critchfield lays out blueprint for a special education funding ‘bridge’
With her $50 million proposal on hold, the state superintendent wants to use existing funds to help schools serve high-needs special education students.
UPDATED: Boise, Valley View Elementary offer new $295,000 settlement to parents
It’s unclear whether this offer is related to the $7 million in sexual abuse settlements the Boise district announced last month — or to Gavin Snow, a former special education assistant at Valley View. The district isn’t saying.
Secure Rural Schools funding bill heads to president’s desk
The bill provides funding through 2025-26, and two years of retroactive payments. Idaho schools last received $6.9 million from the program — but that was in April 2024.