Otter Speech Gets Cool Reception

As Gov. Butch Otter left his State of the State speech, after talking with the media, he got into an impromptu debate with House Democratic leaders over his budget proposal. First, House Assistant Minority Leader James Ruchti, D-Pocatello, said with Idaho families struggling, “This is not a time to raise taxes in Idaho.” Otter challenged Ruchti and House Minority Leader James Rusche, D-Lewiston, saying they were “mixing apples and oranges,” and said, “Are you suggesting we take money out of transportation and put it into social services? … So where are ya going to find the money?”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here .

Question: Should Idaho legislators raise taxes to protect social programs by raising taxes — or by transferring money from other budgetary areas, like for roads and bridges?

* Luna: Education will get less money

* Otter’s 3rd State of the State