Saying their actions were detrimental to the party, the Region 1 Republican Central Committee approved a "no confidence" vote last week against Sens. Shawn Keough of Sandpoint (left) and Joyce Broadsword (right) of Sagle. "As elected state officials, your actions have demonstrated that you do not understand, care about, or are acting in a manner that is consistent in the best interests of your constituents," Region 1 RCC Chairman John Cross said in the letter of censure. "Instead, (you) have used your political positions to further personal agendas and promote the best interests of the opposing political party in direct opposition to the Republican ideals we hold dearly." The region encompasses the five northern counties - Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai and Shoshone. While it has no legal effect, the vote sends the message that party officials are unhappy with the pair's actions/Caroline Lobsinger, Hagadone News Network. More here.

• You can read the letter sent to Sen. Keough here.
• You can read minutes of Feb. 5, 2011, meeting in which a letter in support of Rep Hart will be sent to House Speaker Lawerence Denney here.

Question: Can you believe that Region 1 Republicans would castigate Sens. Shawn Keough & Joyce Broadsword while sending a letter of support to House Speaker Lawerence Denney for Rep. Phil Hart?