State Sen. Bob Nonini, R-Post Falls, and challenger Pat Whalen debate during the NIC Young Republican forum Monday evening. (Photo: Duane Rasmussen)

Education and economic development are important to Patrick Whalen, who is running against longtime incumbent Sen. Bob Nonini, R-Coeur d'Alene, for Legislative District 3 senator. "I think there are some problems that need to be solved in Idaho," Whalen said. "We need somebody who is going to go in with a solutions-oriented approach and try to get some of these problems solved, and not just take an ideological stance." Nonini said his top priority will be education. "I am a big proponent of parental choice," he said, adding that parents should have a range of educational options to choose from. As far as Common Core standards, Nonini said he supports higher standards, but he is not sure if Common Core is the way to go. "The Legislature passed it and we need to give it a chance," Whalen said/Jeff Selle, Coeur d'Alene Press. More here.

DFO: I don't know how in the world Nonini can say with a straight face that education is his top priority. As chairman of the House Education Committee, he turned a deaf ear to the many individuals who testified against the Luna Laws and then was instrumental in passing them.

Question: Whalen or Nonini?