Otter names Little to Idaho’s No. 2 post

Idaho Gov. Butch Otter made big political news just now with his announcement of his pick for the state’s new lieutenant governor: Sen. Brad Little, R-Emmett. Little is a rancher and Senate majority caucus chairman. “Nobody understands the issues, the personalities or the possibilities better than him, and nobody will work harder for the people of Idaho,” Otter said. Little pronounced himself “more than just delighted.” With many family members and supporters on hand watching, Little said, “I’m excited to join Governor Otter’s team. We’ve got a lot of work to do … to get Idaho booming and boiling.” Little said job creation will be his top priority as lieutenant governor. He’s taking over from former Lt. Gov. Jim Risch, who was sworn in today as Idaho’s newest U.S. senator, replacing the retiring Sen. Larry Craig. Otter said he talked with about 30 possible candidates for the post, and part of Little’s appeal was that he was willing to commit to run for the position in the next election in two years. “I fully intend to endorse him and campaign for him,” Otter said.