Lewis backs Grant in House race

BOISE – Rand Lewis, of Worley, has withdrawn from Idaho’s 1st District congressional race and endorsed fellow Democrat Larry Grant.

That sets up a race between Grant, of Fruitland, and Walt Minnick, of Boise, for the chance to challenge freshman GOP Rep. Bill Sali in November.

“It is best that we consolidate our efforts to win this seat,” Lewis said in a statement.

“I believe that we are in a very strong position to make a change in our congressional representation and, by working together, we can ensure a Democratic Larry Grant win in November.”

Grant, a former Micron Technology executive, lost narrowly to Sali two years ago. Lewis also joined the race that year, but withdrew a week later. Lewis is a retired military officer and former director of the Martin Institute for Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at the University of Idaho. He operates a real estate appraisal business in Coeur d’Alene.

Minnick, former CEO of TJ International, a forest products company, previously unsuccessfully challenged Idaho GOP Sen. Larry Craig. Minnick entered the 1st District race last fall and quickly rolled up a large fundraising lead. Grant and Lewis have been campaigning since last spring.

“I’m extremely appreciative of Rand’s endorsement,” Grant said. “We have had time to get to know each other during the campaign and have become friends. … He has offered to advise me on matters that are important to him, such as veterans’ issues, and I’m glad that I and the people of the 1st District will have the benefit of his knowledge.”

Sali faces Matt Salisbury, an Iraq war veteran and Republican activist from Nampa, in the GOP primary.