The forces trying to call Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna and two legislators fell short, substantially short, in their petition drive today. They ran out of time with not enough signatures. No surprise; that outcome was pretty widely predicted. Recalling public officials beyond the level of a small city is very difficult in Idaho, and rarely happens (as, in our view, ought to be the case). No statewide official has ever been recalled in Idaho. The recent referendum effort, which was prompted by the same issue as the recall – Luna’s public school overhaul proposals passed by the Legislature this year – are a different matter. Those are headed for the ballot, are very much alive and their future may be in the hands of the campaign ahead/Randy Stapilus, Ridenbaugh Press. More here.

• Tell us more, Norm/Fort Boise
• Monitoring pesticide use is small price for safety/Sara Arkle, ICL
• Luna Recall fails/Idaho Conservative Blogger
• Otter remains believer in 3 education reforms/Idaho Reporter
• A John McGee editorial roundup/Kevin Richert, Statesman

Question: Randy Stapilus points out that Recall Luna organizers now have all those names on their petitions who might be fodder for the referendum pushes and other political activity. What role will the referendums play in the 2012 general election campaign?