But many booed at other comments, such as Minnick’s statement that the government-run programs, including Medicaid and Medicare, which cover about half of Americans, “do a pretty fair job.” Moderator Mike Patrick asked for respect and a man yelled, “That was respectful.” The crowd peppered Minnick with questions both specific and general. One health care worker asked how the government would prevent the abuse she sees of public health care programs. Jeff Ward, president of the Kootenai County Reagan Republicans, asked why Minnick wasn’t fighting harder against “socialized medicine.” Bob Mobarry, of Hayden, received a big round of applause when he asked why the government couldn’t hold off on health care reform until the deficit is under control/Alison Boggs, SR. More here.

• Coeur d'Alene Press coverage of Minnick townhall

Question: Is there anything Minnick can do to appease Kootenai County Republicans who don't seem to care that he votes pretty much as they would want him to vote?