governor’s race

Governor’s race: Big TV buys, a first debate

A.J. Balukoff has poured more than $500,000 into TV ads, far outspending incumbent Gov. Butch Otter.

Balukoff hints at tax changes for schools

One option: restoring some of the property taxing authority stripped from school districts in 2006.

Otter: Focus on K-12 ‘results,’ not money

Otter’s Democratic challenger, A.J. Balukoff, has called the state’s low per-pupil spending “downright shameful.”

Governor’s race: Two divergent views on education

Is Idaho on “a journey to education excellence?” Or is its K-12 funding commitment “downright shameful?”

Balukoff: Shredding may have broken law

Destroying 22 State Board of Education applications defies logic, and may also violate state public records law, gubernatorial candidate A.J. Balukoff said Monday.

Candidates spar on Hobby Lobby, plus …

The back-and-forth between Gov. Butch Otter and challenger A.J. Balukoff also touched on K-12 funding and Propositions 1, 2 and 3.

Lawmaker joins Balukoff team, temporarily

Boise Democratic Rep. Mat Erpelding will serve as spokesman for the A.J. Balukoff campaign through July, while spokesman Mike Lanza is on leave.

Balukoff touts bipartisan endorsements

The Democratic gubernatorial candidate is backed by former state Rep. Steve Smylie, R-Boise; and Republican businessman Gary Multanen.

Jones enjoys considerable fundraising edge

Democratic state superintendent’s candidate Jana Jones begins the general election with about $20,000 in hand — eclipsing Republican Sherri Ybarra’s meager $293 campaign balance.

Poll: Otter holds 14-point advantage

Republican Butch Otter had 50 percent support in the telephone survey conducted by the conservative-leaning Rasmussen Reports. Democrat A.J. Balukoff trailed with 36 percent.