Thu., Oct. 28, 2010
Mega-loads, wilderness raised at debate
The two leading candidates for Idaho's 1st District congressional seat were asked about the "mega-load" shipments proposed for Idaho's U.S. Highway 12. Labrador said, "I don't think that there is anything wrong with what the state is doing. ... What I see in this case is a group of environmentalists that are trying to prevent this from happening. ... I don't see that there is a problem."
Minnick responded that Labrador misrepresents his position on the issue. "I am not opposed to those shipments," Minnick said. But he said he wants a public hearing to address questions that have arisen over the proposal. Minnick said he hopes to call such a hearing after the election, so "both sides are heard so that the best decision is made."
The two also were asked about Congressman Mike Simpson's Boulder-White Clouds wilderness bill. Minnick said, "I'm sorry my opponent opposes this common-sense solution advanced by my Republican colleague." Labrador said, "I'm with Gov. Otter on this issue. ... I will vote no on this legislation."