House Speaker Bruce Newcomb to retire
House Speaker Bruce Newcomb announced today – on his 66th birthday – that he won’t seek re-election after this session, and will retire after 20 years in the House, eight as speaker. “I’m proud of the people I served with, the trust we developed and the work we did," Newcomb said in his announcement. "I’m grateful for all the help, support and constructive criticism I’ve received over the years, from here in the Legislature and most of all from the good folks back home who put their trust in me to represent them. Thank you.” He added, “This place and these people are like home and family to me. I met my wife here, and some of my best friends in the world. It’s going to be hard to go, but it’s time to get back to the ranch and leave the heavy lifting to younger backs. I’m leaving the House in good hands, with smart people who care as much about Idaho as I do.”