Idaho Senate, District 4 race

Coeur d’Alene Sen. John Goedde is the chairman of the Senate Education Committee, and in his bid this year for a fourth term in the Senate, the Republican has drawn no Democratic challenger, but does face an independent and a Constitution Party candidate on the November ballot.

“Both of these gentlemen ran against me in 2006, and the independent ran against me in 2008 as well. So I know them,” Goedde said.

• John Goedde , 62

Incumbent Republican

Bio: Fifth-term state senator, chairman of the Senate Education Committee; insurance agent; former Coeur d’Alene School Board member; past chairman Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce; bachelor’s degree from Washington State University. Married, one child.

Campaign promises: “I’ll do what I can to stimulate the economy to create jobs, which will then create revenue for the state.”

Notable: As the newly named co-chair of the National Council of State Legislatures education committee, Goedde said he’ll be able to “represent the conservative voice of states at a national level.”

• Jeremy Boggess , 39

Independent

Bio: Third run for state Senate as an independent; home health care giver; bachelor’s degree, Lewis-Clark State College Coeur d’Alene center. Single.

Campaign promises: Tougher prosecution of sex offenses and violent crimes; encourage alternative energy development; create education and/or training opportunities to create future self-reliance.

Notable: Boggess is North Idaho coordinator for the Pickens Plan, businessman T. Boone Pickens’ proposal to wean America from dependence on foreign oil.

• Ray Writz , 59

Constitution Party

Bio: Previously ran against Goedde in 2006; has operated Writz Enterprises janitorial service in Kootenai County for 25 years; worked in janitorial service for Fred Meyer; worked in phone sales; attended technical school. Married, two children

Campaign promises: Reduce overall taxes by eliminating local property tax and state income taxes, and switching to sales tax, with food and medicine exempt; oppose U.N. mandates; support school choice.

Notable: Active in local tea party movement and meet-up groups including Rally Right and Ron Paul supporters.