Paulette Jordan joins race for governor

The 2018 governor’s race is getting more crowded — and a contested race is shaping up on the Democratic ticket.

State Rep. Paulette Jordan

State Rep. Paulette Jordan of Plummer announced her gubernatorial run Thursday. Kimberlee Kruesi of the Associated Press reported on her announcement; here’s a link to her story.

And here, from Kruesi’s story, is a snippet of what Jordan had to say to friends, family and supporters Thursday.

“Service is an inherent value in my family, from my ancestors on down to my sons, and they will carry that tradition forward in their lives. I’m proud to be part of Idaho’s family.”

Jordan is completing her second term in the Legislature. She is a member of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Kruesi reports, and is the only Native American serving in the Legislature.

She is also the only Democratic legislator from North Idaho.

Jordan figures to join Boise school trustee A.J. Balukoff in the Democratic field. Balukoff, the Democrats’ gubernatorial candidate, is expected to formally enter the race in early 2018.

Until now, most of the attention in the race to succeed the retiring Gov. Butch Otter has focused on the GOP primary. For months, Boise businessman Tommy Ahlquist, U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador and Lt. Gov. Brad Little have been jockeying for Republican support.

Both parties will hold their primaries on May 15.

Kevin Richert

Kevin Richert

Senior reporter and blogger Kevin Richert specializes in education politics and education policy. He has more than 30 years of experience in Idaho journalism. He is a frequent guest on "Idaho Reports" on Idaho Public Television and "Idaho Matters" on Boise State Public Radio. Follow Kevin on Twitter: @KevinRichert. He can be reached at [email protected]

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