Perhaps the most puzzling part of last week’s AP report that showed two North Idaho lawmakers were the biggest spenders on travel during the most recent legislative session was the big disparity between what various North Idaho lawmakers charged the state for their airfare – when they all ride on the same plane. The North Idaho lawmakers take the Southwest flight that goes from Boise to Spokane at 5:45 p.m. Fridays, and from Spokane back to Boise at 5:10 p.m. Sundays. I’ve now gotten to the bottom of it. Three North Idaho lawmakers always or almost always fly “Business Select” on Southwest, according to state records obtained through a public records request; a fourth chose that option for two of his five flights. That makes their fares higher, at $460 round-trip, plus gives them perks like priority boarding, a priority security lane, a complimentary premium drink and double mileage rewards/Betsy Russell, Eye on Boise. More here.

Question: Do you blame Nonini, Barbieri & Sims for claiming the extra perks?