A.J. Balukoff, the Democrat already in the race for governor of Idaho in 2018 before Rep. Paulette Jordan’s announcement tonight in Moscow, has issued a statement welcoming her to the race. Here it is:

Idaho gubernatorial candidate A.J. Balukoff applauded tonight’s announcement from Paulette Jordan that she will seek the Democratic nomination for Governor in 2018.

“Voters deserve a robust primary where issues affecting all hard-working Idahoans get discussed and debated.  Idaho needs a positive vision to jump-start prosperity in our state after years of falling behind in education, living in a low-wage economy and losing the ability to compete with the rest of the region.  I look forward to hearing Representative Jordan’s ideas, and I wish her a Happy Birthday.”

Balukoff filed his treasurer paperwork last month in order to begin raising money and build his team.  He will officially kick off his campaign next month.  Jordan made her announcement tonight at a Moscow pizzeria during a birthday celebration.  She is currently serving her second term in the Idaho State House of Representatives.