Otter Could Be Next Samuelson

Both Samuelson and Otter secured office by less than convincing margins. Samuelson won a four-way race in 1966 with 41.4 percent. Four years ago, with the state prospering and his party having delivered tax relief, Otter won the governor’s office with 52.7 percent, the worst showing since 1994. Like Samuelson, Otter has had a contentious relationship with his own Republican Legislature. Last spring, Otter vetoed 36 bills. That’s second place for the most vetoes in a single session. The record - 39 - belongs to Samuelson in the 1967 session. And both men share a gift for the gaffe. In Samuelson’s case, it was an awkward, unfortunate speaking style that earned him the moniker “Big Dumb Don.” With Otter, it’s political fumbles that have fomented a reputation for incompetence/ Marty Trillhaase , Lewiston Tribune. More here .

• Kevin Taylor’s Inlander report re: Otter

Question: Are you beginning to think that Gov. Butch Otter, who as a congressman toyed with the idea of selling off public lands to pay for Katrina relief and now wants to make state parks pay for themselve, is too reckless as Idaho’s top executive?