Here's a shot of Idaho Gov. Butch Otter speaking at the Tea Party of Spokane rally today in Spokane, where he was the headliner. Otter drew standing ovation for his speech that focused in large part on the importance of states’ rights; he also stressed that folks wishing to change the direction of government do so legally and peacefully. “If we disregard the rule of law, we’re going backwards in a big way,” he said. You can read our full story on the rally here.

Meanwhile, GOP congressional candidate Vaughn Ward, who's seeking a chance to challenge Democratic Congressman Walt Minnick, had this statement on Minnick's endorsement today by the Tea Party Express, the only Democrat to win the national group's nod: “This endorsement does not change the fact that Walt Minnick’s first vote in Congress was for Nancy Pelosi and her liberal agenda of higher taxes, more spending, and a more intrusive federal government that has done nothing to get Idaho families back to work," Ward said. "When Walt had the chance to step up to the plate for Idaho families, he voted against permanently ending the financial bailouts and voted for a permanent extension of the death tax. Walt Minnick and Nancy Pelosi’s tax and spend policies continue to cripple our economy. We are proud of the Idaho endorsements we have received as our momentum continues to build.  Our campaign began as a grassroots effort and is driven by the people.  This is their seat and Kirsten and I are humbled by the thousands of people who have given so much to the campaign.”

Minnick, for his part, will appear on CNN American Morning tomorrow at 5:30 a.m. Mountain time to discuss the Tea Party Express endorsement. For more on the tea party movement, why people became involved and the movement's possible role in this year's elections, tonight's "Dialogue" program on Idaho Public TV features members of Tea Party groups from around the state, along with a member of the new "Coffee Party." The show, with host Marcia Franklin, airs live at 8:30 p.m. Mountain time, 7:30 p.m. Pacific, and you can call in toll-free with questions at (800) 973-9800 during the show, or email questions before the show to dialogue@idahoptv.org