EOB: D’s Close Caucus, Bar Popkey

Eight years after House Democrats opened their caucuses – while majority Republican caucuses remained closed – they held a closed caucus Tuesday on fuel taxes, barring Idaho Statesman reporter Dan Popkey from entry. The Dems had asked for a five-minute recess during the fuel tax debate in the House, went into a room off the House floor, and closed the door. Popkey reported that he knocked on the door, Rep. Phylis King, D-Boise, answered, and he asked, “Is this caucus open?” “No,” she replied, shutting the door/ Betsy Russell , Eye On Boise. More here .

• Kevin Richert/Idaho Statesman weighs in

Question: The House Dem Caucus Leader later apologized to Popkey and said that Demo caucuses remain open. What do you make of this development?