Campaign ‘98

Throwing Political Darts

The fun appears to have gone out of Leif Skyving’s write-in candidacy for Congress.

Skyving is a Caldwell-area stand-up comedian who supposedly brings serious talent and a sense of humor to representing the people. His one and only campaign worker, Ron Peterson, certainly is serious but lacks that sense of humor. Stung by a reference to Skyving’s chances in last week’s column, Peterson called to wish the author and his editor the worst.

“There’s the old saying that he who laughs last, laughs best,” Peterson said.

“Mr. Olsen and Mr. Massey will be selling used cars next year at this time in Yakima. And not one of the better used car lots either. Leif is going to win.” No doubt Mr. Peterson will bet the title to his ‘63 Dodge Dart on that victory. See us for a replacement ride, Ron.

Punctual as a Politician

If running for office is akin to applying for a job with the voters, Helen Chenoweth appears a tad tardy in her habits. During the past three weeks, Helen kept breaking interview dates with one reporter - two scheduled for early in the morning. According to her press releases, however, Helen’s busy. Why just last week, she beat back funding for a United Nations standing army, her media megaphone shouted.

If You’ve Got the Money, Honey

Only 26 of Idaho’s incumbent legislators face primary election challenges, reports the campaign finance watchdog group, United Vision for Idaho. It blames big bucks. After combing campaign finance reports at the Idaho secretary of state’s office, United Vision concluded that incumbents outraised their opponents by 5-1. Business and industry are footing the bill, the group says. That gives the incumbents the unfair ability to buy more advertising than the competition, it says. So perhaps the slogan is “One checkbook, several votes,” instead of “One man, one vote”?

Fertilizer for Thought

Tenacious Bill Tarnasky, meanwhile, continued his undaunted marathon run for governor, citing his lack of political experience as a plus. But the fine print reveals Tarnasky may have a richer vein of political stock to mine than previously realized. His most recent missive to the masses talks about his expertise raising registered cattle and “various breeds of horses.” That means he’s mucked about in the manure, which some could easily argue is the primary currency of most political discourse. Tell ‘em you know your bull, Bill.

Misplaced Faith

The bungle of the week appears to go to Kris Sundberg, who is running for the Washington State Supreme Court. Sundberg’s press releases seem to find their way from campaign headquarters to our Idaho office. We’ve heard of miracles in crossover politics, Kris, but we don’t think this will push voters from the great potato state to propel you to the bench.

Campaign Calendar

Just in case it has passed you by, Tuesday is primary election day all across Idaho. Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. People not yet registered to vote can register at the polls with picture ID and proof they have lived at their Idaho address for at least 30 days.