NIPAC Lunch Attracts Guv, Full House

Gov. Butch Otter speaks to the crowd of about 250 people who turned out for a luncheon sponsored by the North Idaho Political Action Committee at the Coeur d’Alene Resort golf course Saturday. (Photo: Duane Rasmussen)

The split in the local Republican Party was clearly evident Saturday, as supporters from the different factions held separate Lincoln Day functions before coming together for their annual dinner. The North Idaho Political Action Committee, or NIPAC, hosted a lunchtime candidate meet-and-greet at the Hagadone Event Center at The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. Governor Butch Otter attended the event as did many of his supporters. The event attracted 250 republicans and dozens of candidates who are running in the May 20 primary elections this year. Many of the candidates in attendance are running for seats on the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee, or the KCRCC. Most of those who spoke mentioned their desire to see the party get back on track. Several mentioned their concern with how the leadership of the current central committee is dealing with the party’s finances. Absent from the $45-a-plate NIPAC event was the leadership of the KCRCC/ Jeff Selle , Coeur d’Alene Press. More here.

• Republicans focus on unified party /Devin Heilman, Coeur d’Alene Press

Question: What do you think was the net effect of the rival Lincoln Day events in Kootenai County Saturday?