Adversity can arm a leader with compassion and empathy. Working at minimum wage can teach politicians about the challenges facing the working poor. Attending college can show them the difficulties today's students encounter as they pay rising costs. Certainly, living on food stamps would enlighten any politician about how limited public assistance is in the Gem State. But it's a stretch for Rep. Phil Hart, R-Athol, to claim his ongoing tax woes make him a better public servant. A third-term lawmaker unopposed in his bid for a fourth, Hart is a former tax protester who serves on the House Revenue and Taxation Committee. "I think it makes you a better legislator, to have these life experiences ... " Hart told the Spokesman-Review's Betsy Russell. ... Sure/Marty Trillhaase, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

• Trillhaase: Every day Denney waits to call an ethics probe is a day too long.

Question: Should House Speaker Lawerence Denney call for an ethics probe into Rep. Phil Hart's tax problems?